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Christopher Nolan recently discussed the difficulties he faced in depicting an atomic explosion in his upcoming film,Oppenheimer, without relying on computer-generated imagery (CGI). The movie revolves around the life of Robert Oppenheimer, a key figure in the development of nuclear weapons during World War II.
One particular scene in the film aims to recreate the first atomic detonation that occurred in New Mexico in July 1945, a pivotal event that preceded the dropping of atomic bombs on Nagasaki and Hiroshima, ultimately leading to the end of the war.
Nolan has gained recognition for his innovative approach to filmmaking, often incorporating daring practical stunts and large-scale spectacles. Notably, he orchestrated the destruction of a real Boeing 747 for his 2020 filmTenet, performed a truck flip forThe Dark Knight, and filmed on top of a melting glacier forInterstellar.
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Christopher Nolan Used Practical Effects For Nuclear Explosion inOppenheimer
Christopher Nolanhas always been a staunch advocate of practical effects in his movies, prioritizing real-life elements over computer-generated imagery (CGI). However, he is taking this commitment to new heights in his upcoming film,Oppenheimer, where he aims to depict a nuclear explosion without relying on CGI.
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Nolan, known for his visually stunning work in films likeDunkirk, understands the immense challenge of recreating such a monumental event without the aid of computer graphics.
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Christopher Nolan promises that viewers will be able to almost physically feel the nuclear detonation in ‘OPPENHEIMER’:
“We knew that this had to be the showstopper. We’re able to do things with picture now that before we were really only able to do with sound in terms of an…pic.twitter.com/D8ZaQyIIYB
— Christopher Nolan Art & Updates (@NolanAnalyst)June 20, 2025
In an interview with Total Film, he acknowledged the demanding nature of approximating a nuclear explosion through practical effects alone.
It’s worth noting that Nolan did not literally detonate a massive bomb in the desert for the film. Rather, he faced the daunting task of finding innovative ways to capture the essence of a nuclear explosion using tangible elements and practical techniques.
“I think recreating the Trinity test [the first nuclear weapon detonation, in New Mexico] without the use of computer graphics, was a huge challenge to take on,” Nolan said. “Andrew Jackson – my visual effects supervisor, I got him on board early on – was looking at how we could do a lot of the visual elements of the film practically, from representing quantum dynamics and quantum physics to the Trinity test itself, to recreating, with my team, Los Alamos up on a mesa in New Mexico in extraordinary weather, a lot of which was needed for the film, in terms of the very harsh conditions out there – there were huge practical challenges.”
Christopher Nolan Guides Audiences How To WatchOppenheimer
Christopher Nolan recently shared his personal preference for choosing a seat in a theater. According to him
“When I’m in a theater that’s Cinemascope ratio, I like to be right near the front, middle of the third row.”
He further explained that for stadium-style IMAX 1.43:1 theaters, he prefers to sit “a little behind the center line right up at the middle. So, a little further back.” These seating choices contribute to what he considers the “best possible experience” when viewing his upcoming film,Oppenheimer, particularly in IMAX 70mm film presentations.
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Nolan expressed his enthusiasm for these rare IMAX 70mm film presentations, stating, “For ‘Oppenheimer,’ the best possible experience is the IMAX 70mm film presentations.”
He highlighted that there are only 25 locations across North America where audiences can enjoy this format, including theaters such as AMC Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles, AMC Lincoln Square in New York, Cinemark Dallas, Regal King of Prussia near Philadelphia, and AutoNation IMAX in Fort Lauderdale. The prints run over 11 miles while weighing 600 pounds.
Source:AP NEWS
Kunal Goel
Articles Published :75
I am an entertainment buff. Any story about pop culture excites me be it TV shows, movies, music, etc. you name it, I have heard about it. Rock, Pop, and Hip-Hop are my go-to music genres. Also, The Family Guy is the best animated series and The Office US is the best series ever.
