Oppenheimer Review: 8 Ups & 2 Downs

It's common knowledge that Albert Einstein's equations helped the atomic bomb come to be. Since he and J. Robert Oppenheimer consulted each other during the weapon's construction, it made sense for the German physicist to show up in Oppenheimer.

But since Einstein is a towering figure in history, it would be extremely difficult to incorporate him in the story without feeling forced.

But not only does Einstein's interactions with Oppenheimer work well, they're vital for the plot Their opening conversation triggers Lewis Strauss' (Robert Downey Jr.) grudge against Oppenheimer. Because the details of this discussion are undisclosed until the end, it kicks off a mini-mystery that lingers in every scene, which keeps viewers permanently on edge.

Though Einstein could've appeared as a quick cameo, Oppenheimer has multiple interactions with his esteemed colleague. However, each meeting feels natural, and give viewers great insight into the way the world sees this pair and more importantly, how they see themselves.

It's also fascinating to look at Einstein, not as an icon or a scientist, but as a human being, fully aware his life's work came at a terrifying cost. Because Oppenheimer shares the same sentiment, it feels like the movie wouldn't have worked without him.