24 July 2023, Mumbai: Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated film Oppenheimer, which delves into the life of J Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, has garnered global attention. However, amidst the praise, a Twitter user has sparked a debate by highlighting a historical inaccuracy in one of the film’s scenes featuring Cillian Murphy as Oppenheimer.
The Scene in Question: Cillian Murphy’s Oppenheimer Applauded with 50-Star US Flags
@AndrewRCraig, the observant Twitter user, shared an image from the film showing Cillian Murphy’s character being applauded while people wave US flags. However, @AndrewRCraig astutely notes that during this scene set in 1945, a US flag with 50 stars is displayed instead of the accurate 48-star flag. In his tweet, @AndrewRCraig humorously writes, “It was good and all, but I can’t help but complain about their use of 50-star flags in a scene set in 1945.” The National Archives Foundation also acknowledges this observation by retweeting it with a witty caption.
Twitter Community Reacts: Humorous Comments and References to Nolan’s Past Films
The tweet quickly gained traction within the Twitterverse, with some discussing potential implications for Christopher Nolan. One user even jokes about how this discovery might bother Nolan when he realizes it. Others draw comparisons to continuity errors found in Nolan’s previous films like The Dark Knight Rises.
Christopher Nolan’s Defense: A Unique Perspective on the Alleged Historical Inaccuracy
However, there is an intriguing defense offered for Christopher Nolan. Another Twitter user suggests that perhaps the inclusion of the 50-star US flag is not an error but rather a creative choice from Oppenheimer’s perspective. According to this theory, colored scenes represent Oppenheimer’s viewpoint while black and white scenes represent another character’s viewpoint. As such, the presence of a 50-star flag could symbolize Oppenheimer remembering his present-day recollection where indeed there are 50 states. In response to someone pointing out that Robert Oppenheimer is no longer alive to have such a memory, the supporter of Nolan’s defense humorously retorts, “Not before 50 states.”
Debating Historical Accuracy vs. Creative Choices
This debate regarding the historical accuracy in Oppenheimer highlights the passion and attention to detail that audiences have for period films. While some advocate for strict adherence to historical accuracy, others appreciate artistic choices that add depth and complexity to a character’s story. Christopher Nolan is well-known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking, often incorporating intricate details into his works. Whether the inclusion of the 50-star US flag was an intentional creative decision or an oversight, it has undoubtedly sparked conversations and further intrigued viewers about Oppenheimer.
As discussions continue, it is clear that Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer has made a lasting impact on its audience. The film prompts conversations about historical accuracy, creative interpretation, and the enduring power of cinema to captivate and engage viewers. As more people watch the film and explore its themes, this conversation surrounding the 50-star US flag and other aspects of historical accuracy will likely evolve further, contributing to the diverse range of opinions and interpretations surrounding this cinematic masterpiece.
By Yashika Desai.