Cillian Murphy, known for his captivating performances and chameleon-like acting abilities, is set to star in the highly anticipated film Oppenheimer, directed by the visionary Christopher Nolan. Scheduled for release on July 21, Oppenheimer promises to be one of the most compelling movies of the year, exploring the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant theoretical physicist often referred to as the “father of the atomic bomb.”
But before you immerse yourself in the world of Oppenheimer, there’s another must-see film featuring Murphy that perfectly captures the essence of an apocalyptic narrative. Let’s take a closer look at this cinematic gem below.
Oppenheimer: A Glimpse into the Life of a Genius
In Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy takes on the challenging role of J. Robert Oppenheimer, delving into the physicist’s involvement in the creation of nuclear weapons as the director of the Los Alamos Laboratory during the Manhattan Project in World War II.
With an exceptional ensemble cast that includes the talented Emily Blunt, the versatile Matt Damon, the charismatic Robert Downey Jr., the talented Florence Pugh, the mesmerizing Rami Malek, the dynamic Benny Safdie, and seasoned actors Michael Angarano, Josh Hartnett, and Kenneth Branagh, Oppenheimer promises to be a cinematic masterpiece that explores the complex moral and scientific dimensions surrounding the development of the atomic bomb.
Cillian Murphy’s Collaboration with Christopher Nolan
Cillian Murphy and Christopher Nolan have forged a remarkable partnership over the years, consistently delivering compelling films that push the boundaries of storytelling and captivate audiences worldwide. Murphy’s notable appearances in Nolan’s works include his chilling portrayal of the Scarecrow in The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005–2012), his enigmatic role in the mind-bending Inception (2010), and his gripping performance in the war epic Dunkirk (2017). However, if you want to witness one of Murphy’s early lead performances that expertly captures the apocalyptic themes found in Oppenheimer, we have the perfect recommendation for you.
28 Days Later: A Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece
Released in 2002 and directed by the visionary Danny Boyle, 28 Days Later stands as one of Murphy’s breakthrough films. In this post-apocalyptic horror masterpiece, Murphy delivers a captivating performance as Jim, a bicycle courier who awakens from a coma to discover that a highly contagious and aggression-inducing virus has wreaked havoc, leading to the breakdown of society.
Joining Murphy in this gripping narrative are the talented Naomie Harris, the enigmatic Christopher Eccleston, the young and promising Megan Burns, and the seasoned Brendan Gleeson, who each deliver stellar performances that enhance the depth and intensity of the story.
If you’re eager to experience the suspense, terror, and emotional resonance of this apocalyptic world, you can stream 28 Days Later on Prime Video with a Cinemax subscription. Alternatively, the film is also available to rent or buy on Prime Video and iTunes, allowing you to embark on this thrilling journey at your convenience.
From 28 Days Later to Batman Begins
28 Days Later not only showcases Murphy’s exceptional talent but also serves as a turning point in his career. Christopher Nolan, upon seeing a picture of Murphy in a newspaper article about the film, was immediately struck by his presence and unique screen presence. This led Nolan to offer Murphy an audition for the title role in Batman Begins, the reboot of the iconic Batman franchise.
Although Murphy didn’t ultimately portray Batman, his audition left a lasting impression on Nolan, leading to the actor being cast as the sinister and psychologically complex villain, Jonathan Crane, also known as the Scarecrow. Murphy’s portrayal of the Scarecrow in The Dark Knight Trilogy further solidified his status as a versatile and formidable actor.
As you eagerly await the release of Oppenheimer, make sure to add 28 Days Later to your watchlist. Immerse yourself in the gripping apocalyptic narrative brought to life by Murphy’s exceptional performance and Danny Boyle’s masterful direction.
