Einstein and the Bomb is a documentary drama film released on Netflix and produced by BBC Studios. It is directed by Anthony Philipson and written by Philip Ralph. The film has a runtime of about 1 hour and 16 minutes.
This docu-drama was created using only the words spoken by Einstein himself, which were taken from his speeches, letters, and interviews. It combines dramatic scenes with archived footage of Einstein’s life, covering his experiences during both world wars, the emergence and decline of fascism, and the dawn of the atomic era.
The cast of the docu-drama film includes Aidan McArdle as Albert Einstein, Andrew Havill, Rachel Barry, Helena Westerman, Leo Ashizawa, Jay Lewis Mitchell, Simon Markey, James Musgrave, Simon Haines and others.
Einstein and the Bomb Review
The film mostly covers the time when Albert Einstein was forced to leave Germany. In 1933, Einstein, the most renowned scientist in the world, was forced to flee his homeland of Germany due to fear for his life. Hitler had come into power and initiated the persecution of the Jewish population, leaving Einstein with no choice but to abandon his country.
However, finding a place where a person of such high stature could disappear from view proved to be a daunting task. Eventually, Einstein’s search led him to a wooden hut situated in a field in Norfolk, England, which served as his English hideaway. This relatively obscure location became a pivotal point in the life of the renowned physicist. It marked a transition between Europe and the United States, pacifism and aggression, and ultimately defined his relationship with the atom bomb, the most powerful invention of all time.
During his time in the UK, Einstein is shown to be revelling in the details of The theory of relativity. Explaining his thought process to others and how mass and energy are the same physical entity and can be changed into each other but in a literary sense. At the same time, he is reeling with a sense of loss. Losing his place, country, money and being a refuge in Europe. Complying with the wishes of the people who helped him – giving multiple speeches, getting photographed in public while having an assassination order on his life.
Also Read: The Heartbreak Agency Review: Laurence Rupp Finds Love in Bitterness
It shows the transformation of a genius pacifist from wanting peace to regretting his involvement in the creation of modern-day, atomic bombs. His words – “I made one great mistake in my life – when I signed the letter to President Roosevelt recommending that atomic bombs be made” signifies how his actions sat heavy on his conscience. He is often heard emphasising responsibility and asking those in power to not misuse the lethal potential they have in their hands.
Overall, the film is a remarkable portrayal of a man of great significance, and its capacity to engage viewers is nothing short of impressive. Its use of historical records, combined with creative cinematography, provides a fresh and immersive perspective on Einstein’s life and work. Consequently, this film is highly recommended for anyone seeking an in-depth examination of one of the most influential figures in modern times.
Rating: 4/5
Einstein and the Bomb is available for streaming on Netflix.
Also Read: Ready Set Love Review: Surrealistic, Unique and Hilarious
Leave a Reply