Fat Man and Little Boy

Synopsis

Fat Man and Little Boy is a historical drama film released in 1989, starring Paul Newman, that delves into the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The movie follows the intense race against time as scientists from the Manhattan Project work tirelessly to create the devastating weapon that would change the course of history. With tension mounting both inside the laboratory and on the battlefield, the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by the brilliant minds behind the project come to light. As the implications of their creation become starkly clear, the film explores the human cost of scientific discovery and the harrowing consequences of warfare.

Cast

• 

  Paul Newman

  Gen. Leslie R. Groves

• 

  Dwight Schultz

  J. Robert Oppenheimer

• 

  Bonnie Bedelia

  Kitty Oppenheimer

• 

  John Cusack

  Michael Merriman

• 

  Laura Dern

  Kathleen Robinson

• 

  Ron Frazier

  Peter de Silva

Reviews

Fat Man and Little Boy received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film for its historical accuracy and powerful performances, others criticized its pacing and lack of emotional depth. The portrayal of the scientists involved in the Manhattan Project was lauded for its complexity and nuanced depiction of the moral quandaries they faced. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a rating of 50%, with the consensus stating, 'Fat Man and Little Boy offers a sobering look at a pivotal moment in history, but struggles to maintain narrative momentum.' IMDb users rated the movie 6.5/10, with many viewers appreciating the meticulous attention to detail in portraying the race to create the atomic bomb. Metacritic also gave the film a score of 50/100, with critics noting its ambitious scope but ultimately feeling it fell short of expectations.