25 Best Movies Like Oppenheimer That Share the Same Intensity and Brilliance

96%

95

7.8

"The Social Network" chronicles the rise of Facebook and the interpersonal conflicts among its creators, particularly Mark Zuckerberg. Similarly to "Oppenheimer," it explores the complexities of innovation, ambition, and the unintended consequences that arise from groundbreaking achievements. While Oppenheimer's story revolves around scientific advancements with the atomic bomb, "The Social Network" delves into the technological revolution and its impact on society. Both narratives peel back layers of genius and human flaws, offering a nuanced exploration of the individuals behind transformative moments in history.

CAST

Jesse Eisenberg

Andrew Garfield

Justin Timberlake

Armie Hammer

Max Minghella

Josh Pence

Brenda Song

Rashida Jones

John Getz

David Selby

Directed by David Fincher

Watch Trailer

84%

75

7.4

"Darkest Hour" focuses on Winston Churchill's early days as Prime Minister during the challenging times of World War II. In parallel, "Oppenheimer" portrays a key figure in another aspect of WWII—the development of the atomic bomb. Both films share the backdrop of a world at war and highlight the weight of decisions made by leaders in times of crisis. Churchill's determination and Oppenheimer's moral dilemmas intersect, revealing the complexities inherent in historical figures navigating tumultuous periods.

CAST

Gary Oldman

Kristin Scott Thomas

Ben Mendelsohn

Lily James

Ronald Pickup

Stephen Dillane

Nicholas Jones

Samuel West

David Schofield

Richard Lumsden

Directed by Joe Wright

Watch Trailer

93%

74

7.8

"Hidden Figures" sheds light on the African-American female mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. Similarly, "Oppenheimer" explores the collaboration and struggles of scientists, including J. Robert Oppenheimer, during the development of the atomic bomb. Both films bring to the forefront the contributions of individuals often overlooked in historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping significant events. The stories intertwine the personal and professional challenges faced by those working behind the scenes in pivotal moments of history.

CAST

Taraji P. Henson

Octavia Spencer

Janelle Monáe

Kevin Costner

Kirsten Dunst

Jim Parsons

Mahershala Ali

Glen Powell

Ariana Neal

Saniyya Sidney

Directed by Theodore Melfi

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Hidden Figures)

from /25 Best Movies Like Hidden Figures for a Truly Inspirational Cinematic Experience!

Watch Trailer

91%

95

7.4

"Zero Dark Thirty" is a gripping thriller directed by Kathryn Bigelow, chronicling the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden. Similar to "Oppenheimer," it delves into the complexities of intelligence operations and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved. Jessica Chastain stars as Maya, a determined CIA operative, drawing parallels with Oppenheimer's unwavering commitment during the Manhattan Project. Both films explore the toll of intense, high-stakes missions and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of historical significance.

CAST

Jessica Chastain

Jason Clarke

Kyle Chandler

Jennifer Ehle

Mark Strong

Joel Edgerton

Chris Pratt

Edgar Ramírez

Mark Duplass

Scott Adkins

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

Watch Trailer

74%

72

8.2

Ron Howard's "A Beautiful Mind" is a biographical drama depicting the life of Nobel laureate John Nash, a brilliant but troubled mathematician. Much like "Oppenheimer," the film delves into the psychological struggles of a genius, showcasing Nash's battle with schizophrenia. Both narratives highlight the personal costs of intellectual pursuits, revealing the delicate balance between brilliance and mental health challenges. Russell Crowe's portrayal of Nash echoes Cillian Murphy's nuanced performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer, emphasizing the vulnerability that often accompanies extraordinary intellect.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Jennifer Connelly

Ed Harris

Paul Bettany

Christopher Plummer

Josh Lucas

Adam Goldberg

Anthony Rapp

Judd Hirsch

Jason Gray-Stanford

Directed by Ron Howard

Watch Trailer

90%

71

8

In "The Imitation Game," director Morten Tyldum explores the life of Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician and codebreaker during World War II. Similar to "Oppenheimer," the film underscores the moral and ethical challenges faced by individuals involved in wartime endeavors. Benedict Cumberbatch portrays Turing with a complexity akin to Cillian Murphy's depiction of Oppenheimer, both characters navigating societal expectations and personal struggles. "The Imitation Game" and "Oppenheimer" share thematic threads of genius, sacrifice, and the impact of historical decisions on the lives of extraordinary individuals.

CAST

Benedict Cumberbatch

Keira Knightley

Matthew Goode

Rory Kinnear

Allen Leech

Matthew Beard

Charles Dance

Mark Strong

James Northcote

Tom Goodman-Hill

Directed by Morten Tyldum

2 degrees of seperation (similar to The Imitation Game)

from /21 Best Movies Like The Imitation Game for Historical and Intellectual Intrigues

Watch Trailer

93%

80

7.7

In "Frost/Nixon," director Ron Howard depicts the electrifying clash between journalist David Frost and former President Richard Nixon during a series of televised interviews. As with "Oppenheimer," the film delves into a historical figure's complex moral landscape. While Oppenheimer grapples with the consequences of the atomic bomb, Nixon faces scrutiny for his role in the Watergate scandal. Both films explore the personal and political dimensions of their protagonists, revealing the weight of their decisions on a global scale.

CAST

Michael Sheen

Frank Langella

Kevin Bacon

Sam Rockwell

Matthew Macfadyen

Oliver Platt

Rebecca Hall

Toby Jones

Andy Milder

Kate Jennings Grant

Directed by Ron Howard

Watch Trailer

93%

83

7.5

Gus Van Sant's "Milk" follows the life of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California. Similar to "Oppenheimer," the film navigates the intersection of personal and political realms. While Oppenheimer battles moral dilemmas tied to nuclear power, Milk confronts societal prejudices and fights for LGBTQ+ rights. Both narratives capture the struggles of individuals grappling with profound societal shifts and the consequences of their choices on a larger stage.

CAST

Sean Penn

Emile Hirsch

Josh Brolin

Diego Luna

James Franco

Alison Pill

Victor Garber

Denis O'Hare

Joseph Cross

Stephen Spinella

Directed by Gus Van Sant

Watch Trailer

80%

71

7.7

James Marsh's "The Theory of Everything" chronicles the life of physicist Stephen Hawking and his extraordinary contributions to science. Like "Oppenheimer," the film probes the internal conflicts and personal sacrifices of a brilliant mind. While Oppenheimer faces ethical quandaries surrounding the atomic bomb, Hawking contends with the physical and emotional challenges of living with ALS. Both stories unfold against the backdrop of scientific discovery, intertwining personal narratives with broader historical contexts.

CAST

Eddie Redmayne

Felicity Jones

Charlie Cox

Emily Watson

Simon McBurney

David Thewlis

Maxine Peake

Harry Lloyd

Tom Prior

Sophie Perry

Directed by James Marsh

Watch Trailer

95%

85

8.5

Roman Polanski's "The Pianist" is a haunting portrayal of pianist Władysław Szpilman's survival in Nazi-occupied Warsaw. Like Oppenheimer, Szpilman grapples with the moral dilemmas of his time. The film captures the brutality of war and the indomitable human spirit, mirroring Oppenheimer's own moral struggles during the creation of the atomic bomb. Adrien Brody's exceptional performance as Szpilman mirrors Cillian Murphy's nuanced portrayal of Oppenheimer, both bringing depth to characters entangled in the ethical complexities of their respective historical contexts.

CAST

Adrien Brody

Thomas Kretschmann

Frank Finlay

Maureen Lipman

Emilia Fox

Ed Stoppard

Julia Rayner

Jessica Kate Meyer

Michal Zebrowski

Wanja Mues

Directed by Roman Polanski

Watch Trailer

93%

80

7.4

George Clooney's "Good Night, and Good Luck" chronicles journalist Edward R. Murrow's stand against McCarthyism in the 1950s. Similarly, Oppenheimer faces political scrutiny and persecution, with both stories reflecting the consequences of challenging authority. Murrow's ethical stance resonates with Oppenheimer's post-war advocacy for nuclear restraint, illustrating the high personal cost of holding steadfast to one's convictions. Both narratives shed light on individuals navigating turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of moral integrity in the face of powerful adversaries.

CAST

David Strathairn

Patricia Clarkson

George Clooney

Jeff Daniels

Robert Downey Jr.

Frank Langella

Ray Wise

Robert John Burke

Reed Diamond

Tate Donovan

Directed by George Clooney

Watch Trailer

96%

84

7.8

Michael Mann's "The Insider" explores whistleblower Jeffrey Wigand's expose of the tobacco industry's deceit. Drawing parallels with Oppenheimer's moral journey, Wigand's struggle reflects the consequences of exposing inconvenient truths. Both narratives grapple with the clash between personal ethics and powerful institutions, showcasing the isolation and sacrifice individuals endure for the greater good. As Oppenheimer faces a security hearing, Wigand confronts legal battles, highlighting the common thread of individuals challenging formidable structures, determined to reveal uncomfortable realities for the benefit of society.

CAST

Al Pacino

Russell Crowe

Christopher Plummer

Diane Venora

Philip Baker Hall

Lindsay Crouse

Debi Mazar

Stephen Tobolowsky

Colm Feore

Bruce McGill

Directed by Michael Mann

Watch Trailer

99%

79

7.5

"Selma" provides a compelling account of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s fight for voting rights in the face of racial injustice. The film captures the essence of a transformative moment in American history, mirroring Oppenheimer's role in a critical juncture of World War II. Both narratives explore the complexities of leadership and the moral obligations inherent in challenging established systems. Just as Oppenheimer grapples with the consequences of unleashing atomic power, "Selma" depicts the ethical challenges King faces as he leads a movement against systemic oppression, drawing striking parallels between personal conviction and historical impact.

CAST

David Oyelowo

Tom Wilkinson

Carmen Ejogo

Tim Roth

Oprah Winfrey

Giovanni Ribisi

Alessandro Nivola

Cuba Gooding Jr.

André Holland

Omar J. Dorsey

Directed by Ava DuVernay

Watch Trailer

72%

64

6.4

"Enigma" unfolds in the shadows of World War II, revealing the clandestine world of codebreakers. Similarly, Oppenheimer operates in the shadows, navigating the covert realm of nuclear weapons development. Both films share a thematic core of secrecy and the ethical quandaries faced by those holding classified knowledge. While "Enigma" explores the repercussions of deciphering enemy codes, "Oppenheimer" contemplates the consequences of harnessing atomic energy. The narratives converge in their exploration of the delicate balance between duty and morality in times of war, offering audiences a glimpse into the high-stakes decisions that shape history.

CAST

Dougray Scott

Kate Winslet

Saffron Burrows

Jeremy Northam

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Tom Hollander

Donald Sumpter

Matthew Macfadyen

Richard Leaf

Bohdan Poraj

Directed by Michael Apted

Watch Trailer

75%

60

7.4

In "Trumbo," the spotlight turns on Dalton Trumbo, a screenwriter blacklisted for his political beliefs. Similarly, Oppenheimer faces scrutiny for his associations and convictions. Both narratives delve into the personal toll exacted by ideological conflicts, emphasizing the human side of historical upheavals. As Trumbo fights for artistic freedom, Oppenheimer contends with the aftermath of his contributions to nuclear weaponry. These stories intertwine, showcasing the resilience of individuals against political adversity and highlighting the universal struggle for truth, justice, and personal redemption in the face of societal turmoil.

CAST

Bryan Cranston

Diane Lane

Helen Mirren

Elle Fanning

Louis C.K.

John Goodman

Michael Stuhlbarg

David James Elliott

Roger Bart

Mark Harelik

Directed by Jay Roach

Watch Trailer

63%

56

7.2

"The Man Who Knew Infinity" unfolds the life of the brilliant Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Similarly, Oppenheimer's journey in "Oppenheimer" is marked by intellectual brilliance. Both narratives delve into the sacrifices and challenges faced by individuals driven by their exceptional minds. While Ramanujan explores the realms of pure mathematics, Oppenheimer delves into the complexities of atomic physics. Both films underline the transformative power of knowledge and the personal costs associated with pursuing intellectual passions.

CAST

Dev Patel

Jeremy Irons

Toby Jones

Devika Bhise

Stephen Fry

Kevin McNally

Jeremy Northam

Anthony Calf

Pádraic Delaney

Shazad Latif

Directed by Matt Brown

Watch Trailer

76%

65

7.1

"Silkwood" is a gripping drama based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, who exposed safety violations at a plutonium processing plant. Much like Oppenheimer, Silkwood grapples with ethical dilemmas involving nuclear materials. Both films explore the human toll of scientific advancements, with Silkwood's courageous whistleblowing echoing Oppenheimer's post-Manhattan Project advocacy for nuclear restraint. The intersection of personal integrity and institutional secrecy forms a common thread, emphasizing the individuals who question the ethical implications of their work in the scientific realm.

CAST

Meryl Streep

Kurt Russell

Cher

Craig T. Nelson

Fred Ward

Diana Scarwid

Ron Silver

Charles Hallahan

Josef Sommer

Sudie Bond

Directed by Mike Nichols

Watch Trailer

79%

80

7.5

"The Hours" interweaves the lives of three women from different time periods, drawing parallels with Oppenheimer's complex journey across various historical moments. Each woman faces a defining moment, mirroring Oppenheimer's pivotal role in the development and deployment of atomic weapons. The film resonates with Oppenheimer's story as it explores the impact of personal choices on broader historical narratives. "The Hours" and "Oppenheimer" both offer nuanced portrayals of individuals navigating the intricate fabric of time, highlighting the reverberations of their decisions across the years.

CAST

Julianne Moore

Nicole Kidman

Meryl Streep

Stephen Dillane

Miranda Richardson

George Loftus

Charley Ramm

Sophie Wyburd

Lyndsey Marshal

Linda Bassett

Directed by Stephen Daldry

Watch Trailer

94%

84

7.1

"Snowpiercer" (2013) is a dystopian thriller directed by Bong Joon-ho. The film is set in a future where humanity's failed attempt to control climate change has left the world in a perpetual ice age. The surviving population resides on a colossal train called the Snowpiercer, divided by class. Similar to "Oppenheimer," "Snowpiercer" explores societal divisions and the consequences of humanity's actions. Themes of power, sacrifice, and the impact of technology resonate, paralleling Oppenheimer's moral struggles in the face of scientific advancements.

CAST

Chris Evans

Song Kang-ho

John Hurt

Tilda Swinton

Jamie Bell

Octavia Spencer

Ed Harris

Ewen Bremner

Ko A-sung

Alison Pill

Directed by Bong Joon-ho

Watch Trailer

89%

88

7

"A Serious Man," directed by the Coen Brothers, is a darkly comedic exploration of existential crises within a 1960s Jewish community. The film follows Larry Gopnik, a physics professor facing a series of perplexing personal and professional challenges. Similar to Oppenheimer's moral struggles in "Oppenheimer," Larry navigates through a maze of uncertainties, seeking meaning and understanding in the face of life's absurdities. Both films delve into the complexities of human existence, examining the impact of choices and the pursuit of purpose amid adversity.

CAST

Michael Stuhlbarg

Richard Kind

Fred Melamed

Sari Lennick

Aaron Wolff

Jessica McManus

Adam Arkin

George Wyner

Peter Breitmayer

Brent Braunschweig

Directed by Joel Coen

Watch Trailer

Duncan Jones's "Moon" is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama centered on Sam Bell, a man working alone on a lunar base. Like Oppenheimer's isolation during key moments in "Oppenheimer," Sam grapples with solitude, questioning reality as he nears the end of his three-year mission. The film explores themes of identity, loneliness, and the consequences of unchecked scientific advancements, drawing parallels to Oppenheimer's moral reflections and ethical dilemmas in the face of groundbreaking nuclear research.

CAST

Sam Rockwell

Kevin Spacey

Dominique McElligott

Rosie Shaw

Adrienne Shaw

Kaya Scodelario

Benedict Wong

Matt Berry

Malcolm Stewart

Robin Chalk

Directed by Duncan Jones

Watch Trailer

85%

86

7.1

Paul Thomas Anderson's "The Master" is a mesmerizing character study that delves into the complex relationship between Freddie Quell and Lancaster Dodd. Similarly to Oppenheimer's collaborations with fellow scientists in "Oppenheimer," Freddie becomes entangled with Dodd, a charismatic cult leader. The film explores power dynamics, belief systems, and the search for meaning, echoing Oppenheimer's own quest for understanding in a world transformed by his contributions to nuclear science. Both narratives delve into the intricacies of mentorship, loyalty, and the consequences of unrestrained ambition.

CAST

Joaquin Phoenix

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Amy Adams

Rami Malek

Laura Dern

Jesse Plemons

Ambyr Childers

Madisen Beaty

Kevin J. O'Connor

Patty McCormack

Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson

Watch Trailer

92%

85

7.3

In "Take Shelter," Curtis LaForche, portrayed by Michael Shannon, grapples with apocalyptic visions that haunt his reality. Convinced of an impending storm, he strains relationships as he obsessively builds a shelter. Similarly to "Oppenheimer," the film explores the psychological toll of anticipating catastrophe and the impact on personal and societal dynamics. Both delve into the complexities of individuals navigating a world overshadowed by existential threats, touching on themes of isolation and the relentless pursuit of preparedness.

CAST

Michael Shannon

Jessica Chastain

Katy Mixon

Shea Whigham

Ray McKinnon

Tova Stewart

Natasha Randall

Ron Kennard

Scott Knisley

Robert Longstreet

Directed by Jeff Nichols

Watch Trailer

53%

51

7.2

Darren Aronofsky's "The Fountain" weaves a tale across three timelines, exploring love, mortality, and the quest for eternal life. Like "Oppenheimer," which grapples with the consequences of scientific advancements, "The Fountain" merges science and spirituality, employing visually stunning storytelling. Both films contemplate the ethical dimensions of human ambition, with "The Fountain" doing so through its protagonists' quests for immortality, paralleling Oppenheimer's profound impact on history through his involvement in the atomic bomb's development.

CAST

Hugh Jackman

Rachel Weisz

Ellen Burstyn

Mark Margolis

Stephen McHattie

Fernando Hernández

Cliff Curtis

Sean Patrick Thomas

Donna Murphy

Ethan Suplee

Directed by Darren Aronofsky

Watch Trailer

69%

67

7.5

Charlie Kaufman's "Synecdoche, New York" follows theater director Caden Cotard as he creates an intricate replica of life within a massive warehouse. Similarly to "Oppenheimer," the film explores the weight of one's contributions to the world. Both narratives delve into the existential search for meaning and legacy, with characters grappling with the consequences of their actions. "Synecdoche, New York" mirrors Oppenheimer's introspective journey, contemplating the significance of his role in shaping history and the profound impact on his personal identity.

CAST

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Samantha Morton

Jennifer Jason Leigh

Michelle Williams

Catherine Keener

Emily Watson

Tom Noonan

Sadie Goldstein

Hope Davis

Dianne Wiest

Directed by Charlie Kaufman