What I’ve Learned from "Oppenheimer," “One Life,” and "Masters of the Air"

I've been sharing with friends lately that I feel optimistic by the recent surge in films that recount significant historical events and figures. From Ridley Scott’s Napoleon and George Clooney's The Boys in the Boat, to Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon, this trend has been encouraging for me, because they point toward our collective fascination and the ongoing importance of our shared history.

Three productions have resonated with me in particular: The critically acclaimed Oppenheimer, the miniseries Masters of the Air, and the poignant but lesser-known One Life.? The first, Oppenheimer, transports us into the intricate life of the physicist behind the atomic bomb, while Masters of the Air pays tribute to the valor of WWII bomber crews. One Life, starring Anthony Hopkins, dramatizes the heroic efforts of Nicholas Winton, who saved hundreds of children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia

These films cut through the complex narratives often found in Westerns and other genres to present a stark contrast—offering a clear moral compass by directly confronting the horrors of the Nazism, Fascism and authoritarianism. While they may not capture every nuance of the World War II experience, their influence is as meaningful as it is substantial because they help engrain the critical lessons of history in our collective consciousness, and they encourage us to recognize and challenge us while also reminding just how vital it is to remember and learn from the past.

Each of these productions not only entertain but educates, and are readily available on platforms like Apple TV+ or Amazon Prime.

Oppenheimer

Oppenheimer, of course, was directed by Christopher Nolan, portrays the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist behind the atomic bomb.? The film, based on the biography American Prometheus, covers his academic beginnings, leadership of the Manhattan Project, and subsequent moral quandaries post-World War II. It explores ethical dilemmas and the consequences of scientific advancements, reflecting on personal accountability, genius and guilt, as well as the ethical dilemmas often tied to scientific advancements.? Cillian Murphy stars as Oppenheimer, alongside an ensemble cast. As we hurtle through this age of Artificial Intelligence, I can think of no better parallel that demands that we continue to question our collective responsibilities in scientific discovery.

Masters of the Air

Masters of the Air is the story of the American bomber crews of the 8th Army Air Forces, who played a pivotal role throughout World War II, offering viewers a searing portrayal of the aerial battles that were critical to the ultimate Allied victory. The series vividly captures the day-to-day experiences of these young airmen—the intense preparation, the adrenalized execution of their missions, and the harrowing aftermath. Each episode explores the emotional and psychological toll faced by these men, and how the extremity of war forged unbreakable bonds of brotherhood among the crew members.

In each episode we see the profound sense of duty that drove these men to undertake such perilous missions and the personal sacrifices that came with their commitment. Leadership is another central theme, as the series portrays the complexities of command where every decision had its own set of implications.

In highlighting these elements, Masters of the Air honors the men and women of our Greatest Generation. The personal tales of survival, mental resilience, and mutual support frame the entire narrative, providing a compelling look at the impact of war on individual lives and the indomitable spirit that defined a generation.

One Life

One Life recounts the remarkable efforts of Nicholas "Nicky" Winton, a London broker, who orchestrates the rescue of hundreds of mostly Jewish children from Czechoslovakia as the threat of Nazi occupation looms. Despite the successful rescue, Winton is burdened by memories of those he could not save, a haunting reminder of his unfinished mission.

The story is brought to life by the performances of Anthony Hopkins, Helena Bonham Carter, and Johnny Flynn, who add depth to the tale of bravery and moral urgency. The film not only showcases the historical significance of Winton’s acts but also emphasizes the profound impact of individual altruism in times of crisis. Through Winton's story, One Life portrays the immense value of courage and the profound difference one person's selfless actions can make in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The Lessons of all Three

If we experience them fully, each movie—Oppenheimer, One Life, and Masters of the Air—all explore ethical responsibility, the power of individual actions, and the enduring human spirit in the face of enormous adversity. Each film portrays a complex, nuanced view of moral choices, leadership, and the consequences of human endeavors, whether in scientific innovation, humanitarian rescue, or warfare.

Each of these stories collectively teach us that in every action, there is potential for both destruction and salvation, urging all of us to reflect on the impact of our choices and the importance of striving for ethical decisions, empathy, and courage in the face of our most daunting challenges.

One of the most memorable scenes from Oppenheimer is its depiction of the Trinity Test, which marks the first successful detonation of a nuclear weapon. This pivotal moment is portrayed with intense emotional and visual impact, capturing the awe and horror as the brilliant flash and colossal mushroom cloud rise over the New Mexico desert. The scene juxtaposes the scientific triumph with the profound existential dread it brings, reflecting on Oppenheimer's internal conflict as he famously quotes from the Bhagavad Gita:

"Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds."

This moment is both the movie's climactic moment, as well as a critical point in human history, all depicted with gripping tension and profound meaning for future generations to consider.

As we walk out of the theater, we find that we’ve been firmly placed on the mantle of responsibility that comes with groundbreaking scientific discovery.? Accompanying human achievement is also its paradoxical potential for oblivion. Something for each of us to think about as we grapple with the age of Artificial Intelligence.

Masters of the Air demonstrates the importance of leadership, teamwork, and resilience, and the personal costs of war, all while honoring bravery and sacrifice.

We watch as bomber crews of “The Bloody 100th” brace for missions over Europe, and see the camaraderie and courage required to face the uncertainties of war.? Over ten episodes, Hanks and Spielberg unfurl the tales of extraordinary valor and the visceral impact of aerial combat. In one scene, Harry Crosby returns to an empty barracks after none of his comrades and friends returned from a mission.? Throughout this series, we are again witnesses to the psychological fortitude of those who fought not just enemies, but all of their fears within.

One extraordinary scene from Masters of the Air occurs during a particularly intense bombing mission over Berlin. In this harrowing sequence, viewers are placed right in the cockpit with the crew as they navigate through a storm of anti-aircraft fire. The tension peaks when the plane is hit, and the crew must work frantically to maintain control and complete their mission. This scene powerfully captures the perilous reality of the bomber boys’ missions, highlighting their bravery and the close calls that were a regular part of their duties. It's a poignant reminder of the high stakes and sacrifices these young men faced during each flight.

One Life reaches an emotional pinnacle when Nicholas "Nicky" Winton witnesses the long-term impact of his actions: the children he saved, now grown and thriving. This poignant moment serves as a turning point for Winton, offering him a semblance of peace and a deeper understanding of his life's purpose.

As these men and women share their successes and recount how Winton’s bravery altered their destinies so fully, the ripple effect of his courageous decision unfolds. Each survivor's story is a testament to the potential of human life when given a chance to flourish, leading us to a realization of? the lasting importance of Winton’s mission. This reunion not only highlights the personal connections that Winton forged amid terrifying circumstances but also affirms that the lives he saved have multiplied into generations, contributing positively to society. This profound realization helps Winton reconcile with the past, appreciating the breadth of his impact, which extends far beyond the immediate rescue.

History as Hope

At the recent Ken Burns Film Festival in Gettysburg, Ken Burns eloquently referred to our shared history as:

"The story of who we are."

Watching films like Oppenheimer and One Life, along with the miniseries Masters of the Air, reinforces this notion. These productions, each in their own unique and often visceral way, not only recount our past but also inspire us toward a future shaped by thoughtful action, empathy, and courage. Their portrayal of historical events and figures urges us to reflect on the lessons learned and the paths forged by those who came before us--most notably their service, and their sacrifices.

At the same Film Festival, as Sam Waterston poignantly remarked,

“History is hope.”

When I heard it, I immediately realized the eloquence of this statement in its simplicity, because it captured the the essence of what history--and what these films--achieve: they offer hope and inspire us towards a future marked by empathy, courage, and thoughtful action. In portraying our shared critical past, they not only educate but also encourage us to forge paths of integrity and compassion in our own lives.? And if films are successful in achieving that alone, all of us have good reason to be optimistic.