"OPPENHEIMER" (2023)

GADGET

Written by

Christopher Nolan

Based on the novel:

"American Prometheus:

The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer"

By Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin

© 2022 SYNCOPY

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A VAST SPHERE OF FIRE, the fire of a thousand suns, slowly eats the night-time desert. A line of black type appears:

PROMETHEUS STOLE FIRE FROM THE GODS AND GAVE IT TO MAN.

And the sound of DOZENS OF FEET STAMPING RHYTHMICALLY...

FOR THIS HE WAS CHAINED TO A ROCK AND TORTURED FOR ETERNITY.

ROILING PLASMA expands, the sound of STAMPING GROWS OPPRESSIVE, the STAMPING FASTER and FASTER OVER-

A FACE. Gaunt, tense, EYES TIGHTLY SHUT. The face SHUDDERS- the sound CEASES AS MY EYES OPEN, STARING INTO THE CAMERA:

Peer into my soul- J. ROBERT OPPENHEIMER, aged fifty, close- cropped greying hair. The gentle sounds of bureaucracy...

SUPER TITLE: "1. FISSION"

VOICE (O.S.) Dr Oppenheimer, as we begin, I believe you have a statement to read into the record?

I glance down at my notes.

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CLOSE: on a prosperous sixty-three-year-old man, LEWIS STRAUSS, as he takes a cup of coffee from a SENATE AIDE...

SUPER TITLE: "2. FUSION"

The Senate Aide leads Strauss along the corridor.

SENATE AIDE

Really, Mr Strauss- STRAUSS (CONT’D)

Admiral.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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They arrive at the door.

The door to the VAST committee room opens- they enter, FLASHBULBS POPPING as PRESS and PUBLIC see Strauss.

The room is SMALL, SHABBY. Surprised, I look up from my statement at the prosecutor, Roger ROBB. Then turn to the THREE BOARD MEMBERS (GRAY, EVANS, MORGAN).

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: A YOUNG ME (TWENTY-ONE) LIES IN BED STARING UP, CRYING... PARTICLES WITH THE VASTNESS OF THE STARS MOVE LIKE FIREFLIES...

The young ME, frazzled demeanor, STRUGGLES with equipment.

I drop a beaker, it SHATTERS. PATRICK BLACKETT looks over, FROWNING. He picks up an APPLE and takes a LARGE BITE.

Blackett checks his watch- starts packing up-

I start to pack up with the other students.

I clean up as Blackett and the other students leave- one leaves an APPLE for Blackett- GREEN WITH STEM AND TINY LEAF.

I pause at a bottle: "Potassium Cyanide"... CLUMSY HANDS SHAKING, I draw CYANIDE into a syringe. I INJECT the apple...

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I HURRY across the quad. A lonely figure.

I sneak into the back of the auditorium. Standing, SPELLBOUND, as NIELS BOHR, a charismatic Dane, lectures.

I RAISE my hand to ask a question...

Strauss sits facing the Committee, COUNSEL beside him, PRESS, CAMERAS and PUBLIC behind...

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Strauss, younger, fifty-one, bustles out of the Institute-

-to welcome the rail-thin figure of Oppenheimer (forty- three), emerging from a TAXI in HAT and coat, PIPE in mouth. ICONIC.

Strauss points along an avenue of trees to Olden Manor...

Oppenheimer nods as he follows Strauss into the Institute.

(B&W)

Strauss leads Oppenheimer through the Institute.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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MOMENTS LATER (B&W)

Strauss shows Oppenheimer into the well-appointed office.

Oppenheimer drifts to the windows- a LAWN rolls down to a POND. He spots a FIGURE- long grey hair poking from under his hat-

The figure gently tosses a stone into the water.

Oppenheimer turns to Strauss, interested.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss, awkward, stays in the doorway and WATCHES...

FROM AFAR: as Oppenheimer approaches, Einstein’s HAT BLOWS off his head, unleashing a MESS OF GREY HAIR, hat rolling across the grass to where Oppenheimer SCOOPS it up, and we...

I flip a page. Continue reading my statement.

The Young Me lies on the floor, STARING UP.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: POINTS OF LIGHT MOVE LIKE SPARKS, BUT IN A WAVE.

I wipe TEARS from my eyes.

INSERT CUT: STARS. SPARKS FROM A CAMPFIRE. I PAT THE NOSE OF A HORSE IN THE DARKNESS AS I FEED IT AN APPLE.

I grow calm, my eyelids lowering...

INSERT CUT: AN APPLE- GREEN WITH STEM AND A TINY LEAF...

I open MY EYES- JUMP out of bed- SCRAMBLE to dress-

I RUN, DESPERATE, AGAINST the crowd-

I BURST in- Blackett LOOKS UP. ANOTHER MAN has his back to me. Between them on the workbench- the POISONED APPLE...

I nod awkward, trying to control my BREATHING...

The other man TURNS, offers his hand- Niels Bohr.

Bohr takes me in- this strange, BREATHLESS young man...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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YOUNG OPPENHEIMER

I heard you give the same BOHR lecture- At Harvard. And you asked the

same question. Why ask again?

Bohr picks up the POISONED APPLE from Blackett’s desk...

I shake my head. Bohr GESTICULATES with the apple as he talks- I watch it bob around- a kitten following a ball of string...

Bohr raises the apple to take a bite- I GRAB it.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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-DROP it into the wastebasket. Blackett peers at it, curious.

SPARKS explode in WAVES, WAVES of FIRE CRASHING on a SHORE of GLASS, FLYING OVER the MEDIEVAL SPIRES of Gottingen, I watch BORN and BOHR and DIRAC, GALAXIES of PARTICLES DISPERSE and REFORM, a CUBIST PAINTING transfixes the Young Me, an ORCHESTRA plays STRAVINSKY, I read THE WASTE LAND, I WRITE FURIOUSLY at a desk, I WRITE FURIOUSLY on a chalkboard, I SMASH a glass, and ANOTHER, and ANOTHER, WATCHING the SHARDS skid across the floor, CATCHING and REFRACTING LIGHT, I watch RAINDROPS scintillate a PUDDLE, STREAM down a windowpane, I disturb the surface of a sink full of WATER, watching RIPPLES propagate and INTERFERE, I BOUNCE a ball against a corner of my room, studying its trajectory...

Strauss watches Oppenheimer hand the HAT to Einstein. Strauss checks his watch, then starts down the hill towards them. As he approaches, Einstein TURNS, walking towards Strauss with a GRIM EXPRESSION.

Einstein PASSES without acknowledging Strauss. Strauss reaches Oppenheimer-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Oppenheimer turns, heads back up the hill.

Oppenheimer looks back at Strauss, GRINS-

Strauss watches him go, shaking his head.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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A few CHUCKLES from the room.

The board members listen as I continue reading...

A packed hall. The Young Me nervously checks my notes.

A stocky young man, ISIDOR RABI (thirty), plonks down next to a DUTCH STUDENT who reluctantly shifts, giving him room.

I start lecturing... IN DUTCH. Ravi, confused, leans in.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I stare out the window at dark trees, steam and shadows, Rabi dumps his bags down, slumps opposite, sizes me up. Offers me an orange-

Rabi starts peeling his orange.

Rabi STOPS peeling his orange to STARE at me-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Rabi peels his orange. He turns serious...

Rabi tosses me a slice of orange.

I take the orange, 'sipping' at it.

A tall man of twenty-six turns from the blackboard- HEISENBERG. I study his every move. Rabi NUDGES me 'See?'...

Rabi introduces me to Heisenberg.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I smile to myself.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb looks up at me...

I walk across campus to the physics department...

I struggle to unlock a door... it opens-

A DUSTY storage space. Scattered tables and chairs. A piano.

I step out of the classroom. Look NEXT DOOR...

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I enter. A handsome young scientist, ERNEST LAWRENCE, works on an assemblage of curved pipes and wiring with students, including Luis ALVAREZ.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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OPPENHEIMER

I’m teaching something no one LAWRENCE(CONT’D) here’s dreamt of. But once (grins) people start hearing what you There’s no going back. can do with it...

I stand there, expectant. A student opens the door, looks around, embarrassed-

LOMANITZ (twenty-one) nods, takes a seat.

Lomanitz opens his mouth to speak- too slow-

LOMANITZ

It can’t. OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D)

It can’t. But it is. It’s paradoxical and yet... it works.

Lomanitz is hooked. I turn to the board, chalk out an equation... when I turn back-

There are now FIVE students (including SERBER and SNYDER) listening intently... I move to Lomanitz to hand him his paper. I pat his shoulder.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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A PACKED CLASSROOM, hanging on my every word as I- now thirty- two, slim, well-dressed, confident- teach in the round. Lawrence listens at the edge, fascinated.

INSERT CUT: A STAR. A SUN. BURNING, ROILING.

I look around. Make eye contact with Hartland SNYDER.

INSERT CUT: THE SUN IS SHRINKING, MORE AND MORE RAPIDLY...

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Energetic, dashing, I STRIDE across campus, a group of students, including Snyder and Lomanitz, following me, hanging on my every word...

I mark up a paper. Lawrence comes in, frowns at the board.

I follow his look: "SATURDAY 2:00pm, RALLY FOR LOYALIST SPAIN".

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss looks at the senator, cautious...

As I get out of my car, I spot TWO MEN checking the license plates of cars on the street... I am GRABBED-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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My younger brother FRANK (twenty-five) and his date, JACKIE.

We ENTER the bustling room- I spot a beguiling young woman-

VOICE (O.S.) Robert! Come meet Chevalier.

Mary WASHBURN grabs my tie and leads us to Haakon CHEVALIER.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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JACKIE

Frank and I are thinking of OPPENHEIMER joining- (ignoring Jackie)

I support of range of causes.

Jackie, put out, leads Frank away.

INSERT CUT: THE SUN SHRINKS. THE LIGHT OF THE DISTANT STARS BEHIND IS TUGGED TOWARDS THE DYING STAR, BENDING, STRETCHING.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script25.25.

The beguiling young woman is there with a tray of martinis. This is Jean TATLOCK...

Tatlock nods. I take a glass.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Chevalier laughs, delighted, as he leaves us alone.

Tatlock considers this. Sizes me up.

We are FUCKING. Hot, sweaty, a little brutal. Tatlock GIVES UP, climbs off me-

I catch my breath, watching her STUDY my shelves.

TATLOCK

Actually my background’s more- OPPENHEIMER(CONT’D)

Jungian.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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She turns to me.

Tatlock turns back to the books.

She pulls a book from the shelf: THE BHAGAVAD GITA. She opens the book to find INCOMPREHENSIBLE CHARACTERS.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script28.28.

She climbs on top of me, opens the book in my face.

I study the page as Tatlock starts to move.

OPPENHEIMER

In this part, Vishnu reveals TATLOCK (CONT’D) his multi-armed self- Read the words.

She points to each word as I translate...

She nods, impressed, starts moving again...

Moving over the VAST landscape to find three tiny figures. I lead Lawrence and Frank on horseback up a mountain trail.

THUNDER. Lawrence climbs off his horse. The wind WHIPS as we set up our tent...

Lawrence, Frank and I huddle in the BUFFETING TENT, trying to keep a fire going in the WIND and RAIN outside the tent.

I look at Frank, sardonic with drink.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script29.29.

Frank stares at me... the tent stops buffeting...

Frank watches Lawrence go, then pounces-

I point in the direction Lawrence wondered off.

I giggle at this. Frank shakes his head, then starts laughing, too. I grab Frank’s shoulder. Frank looks up...

I hold up my hands in defeat-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script30.30.

I approach Lawrence, who stares up at the stars.

INSERT CUT: AN EXPANDING DARKNESS EATS THE STARS...

Lawrence smiles at this. Looks around, then-

I turn, heading to the tent. Lawrence follows.

My response is so soft it is almost swallowed by the dark...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script31.31.

Tatlock and I walk down the sidewalk. I try to take her hand- she folds her arms.

Across the street a young man BURSTS out of the BARBER SHOP, towel across chest, NEWSPAPER in hand... the barber runs out- the young man rips off the towel, TOSSES it to him and RUNS-

I leave Tatlock on the sidewalk, take off after Alvarez-

Alvarez SPRINTS, newspaper in hand- I follow-

I BURST in- Lawrence is trying to calm Alvarez-

Alvarez tosses the paper at me-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script32.32.

I put down the paper, take up my chalk like it’s a weapon, move to the board. Alvarez grabs the paper-

Alvarez and Lawrence leave. I write and write...

Lawrence enters. I turn. Point at the board.

I peer at Alvarez’s oscilloscope...

I stand, moving away... thinking...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script33.33.

Tatlock GRABS a bouquet out of my hands-

She dumps them in the trash. I just stare.

OPPENHEIMER

I don’t understand what you TATLOCK (CONT’D) want from me- I don’t want anythingfrom

you.

I pause. Then, gently...

Tatlock kicks at the dirt.

She looks up at me.

She goes inside-

Slams the door shut behind her. I stand there.

I turn. Chevalier and his wife, BARBARA, wait in the car.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script34.34.

Chevalier and Barbara lead me into the crowded hall. A BANNER: "FEDERATION OF ARCHITECTS, ENGINEERS, CHEMISTS AND TECHNICIANS".

A man with a British accent greets us. This is ELTENTON.

Eltenton guides me towards the stage...

I spot Lomanitz, who grins and waves...

Eltenton pushes me onto the stage. People start APPLAUDING at the very sight of me. I can’t quite not smile about this.

I watch Lawrence examine his cyclotron.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The door opens. Richard TOLMAN and Vannevar BUSH enter-

They exchange glances with Lawrence. Awkward SILENCE. I rise, letting them off the hook-

As I enter, a magazine FLAPS into my hands from across the room. Students are all reading copies...

I open the magazine as I turn to a STUDENT-

Snyder comes in with a newspaper. Glum.

He holds up the paper: "HITLER INVADES POLAND".

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script36.36.

Robb looks on intently as I turn the page on my statement...

OPPENHEIMER

No. If you’ll just allow me GRAY to- Mr Robb, you’ll have ample

opportunity to cross-examine.

Behind me, on a couch, is KITTY (forty-six), listening intently...

Kitty (thirty-one) watches as I EXPERTLY open the liquor cabinet-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I turn to see RUTH TOLMAN (forty-five) looking at me, mischievous.

I thump a glass onto the cabinet- pour a drink-

I hand her the glass- fingers touching...

I push the palm of my hand up against hers.

Kitty pushes her fingers through mine, interlacing our hands. I look at a GREY-HAIRED MAN in conversation with Tolman...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script38.38.

As Ruth looks our way I let Kitty’s hand go.

Kitty looks meaningfully over her glass at me.

Kitty and I THUNDER along on horseback, climbing a ridge. I shout ahead to Kitty-

Kitty pulls up. I come alongside.

Kitty DISMOUNTS. I follow.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script39.39.

Kitty takes out a hip flask. SWIGS.

She hands me the flask. I take a drink.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script40.40.

She looks around at the wilderness...

I grab her. Kiss her, hard.

Tatlock and I sit on the floor, backs to the bed like kids. Tatlock has been crying.

I reach into my pocket- she GRABS the small posy from me, TOSSING it aside.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script41.41.

Tatlock looks at me. Appreciating the sentiment.

I write "F.A.E.C.T." on the board, Lomanitz hands out FLIERS. Lawrence enters, GRABBING a flyer from the nearest student: "UNIONIZE THE RADIATION LAB".

Lawrence turns to another student-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script42.42.

The students file out. Lawrence SLAMS the door- turns on me-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I’m taken aback by this...

I see the reality. Shift gears-

LAWRENCE

You just need to be more- OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D)

Pragmatic. It’s done, Lawrence. I’ll talk to Lomanitz and the others. You don’t have to worry.

Lawrence looks at me. Sees this is real.

I glance up from my notes.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script44.44.

Strauss suppresses his irritation at the line of questioning.

Strauss paces-

INSERT CUT: A YOUNG MAN LEAFS THROUGH A FILE, COLLECTING HIS THOUGHTS... THIS IS WILLIAM BORDEN... HE STARTS TYPING...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script45.45.

Oppenheimer sits at the witness table with Joe VOLPE, the AEC lawyer. Strauss is in the audience.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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LAUGHTER. Strauss squirms, embarrassed.

Volpe looks at Strauss, who SMILES, GOOD-HUMOURED...

I come in. The lights are off. A BABY’S CRIES echo...

She is in the dining room, in the dark, drink in hand.

She sips. SLIDES her drink down the table at me-

As the baby CRIES, Kitty comes to me, pulling at my clothes-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script47.47.

She moves to kiss my neck- I look upstairs- she PUSHES me away- GRABS her drink...

I carry the crying infant, PETER, to the front door. Knock. Barbara opens it- sees my distraught face and takes Peter.

Chevalier hands me a drink. I stare into the liquid.

Chevalier puts out a hand to stop me rising...

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script48.48.

Kitty and I GALLOP through the trees, EMERGING into the twilight overlooking a valley. Kitty turns to the wind.

OPPENHEIMER

Having a child was always- KITTY (CONT’D)

(impatient) The world is pivoting in some new direction... reforming... this is your moment.

OPPENHEIMER(CONT’D)

We’re putting together a KITTY (CONT’D) group to study feasibility- 'We' shouldn’t be doing

anything. You should. Lawrence won’t get this done. Or Tolman, or Rabi. Youwill.

A crowded and lavish lunch. I notice a large man in ARMY UNIFORM, Colonel GROVES, sitting next to another soldier (NICHOLS) with Bush and Tolman. I sidle up to Lawrence at the buffet.

The husky GROVES spills sauce on his tunic, wipes at it.

I am working. Groves and Lieutenant Colonel NICHOLS enter.

Groves pulls off his uniform jacket, TOSSES it to Nichols.

I watch Nichols leave.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I turn to the blackboard. Take up my chalk.

I have drawn a cross at the centre of the diagram.

INSERT CUT: A BARBED-WIRE FENCE IS STRUNG OUT...

INSERT CUT: A SCHOOLHOUSE IS ERECTED. A CHURCH. A STORE...

I talk to Groves as Nichols looks on...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script54.54.

Groves emerges, squinting into the brightness, taking in the stark beauty. I greet him, arms spread wide.

Groves scans the horizon. Sniffs the air... turns to Nichols.

I watch Groves go over a file.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script55.55.

Groves and I sit talking to BAINBRIDGE and DONALD.

I glance at Groves. Then CROSS my legs.

Groves and I walk with CONDON.

Groves SNAPS like a bulldog-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script56.56.

I look at Groves, then SHRUG at Condon.

Groves and I sit across the desk from a CONCERNED SCIENTIST.

Concerned Scientist GLANCES at Groves then DROPS his gaze.

Groves looks at me. Gets up and goes.

Groves and I flank FEYNMAN as he hurries across the quad-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script57.57.

Groves is napping. I just start talking.

INSERT CUT: BOHR GESTICULATES WITH THE POISONED APPLE.

The train BUMPS. I look out the window, impatient.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script58.58.

Dressed in ARMY UNIFORM, I show Rabi and Condon the CHAOTIC SNOWY and MUDDY mesa. CONSTRUCTION CREWS at work. Feynman approaches-

Condon hurries off with Feynman. Rabi turns to me.

I draw on the board.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script59.59.

Rabi, seldom at a loss for words, is lost for words...

I pull on a jacket. Run a hand through newly shorn close- cropped dark hair. Put on a PORK PIE HAT. Pick up my pipe...

I walk the main drag like a SHERIFF, nodding at construction workers as I pass... THE ICONIC J. ROBERT OPPENHEIMER.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script60.60.

I look down onto the bustle of students. Lomanitz looks up and waves- then is ERASED by WHITEWASH as workers COVER the windows... Serber hands me a key.

The door BURSTS OPEN and a stooped, slightly heavy young man shuffles in. This is EDWARD TELLER.

I sit at the front, one long leg tucked under my ass. The scientists include Lawrence, Serber, Teller, BETHE, Condon, Tolman, Feynman, Donald, Bainbridge, NEDDERMEYER and Alvarez.

I see Teller waving a piece of paper-

Teller’s paper is passed around the room, scientists PALING...

Hans Bethe hands me the paper, turns to Teller.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script61.61.

I look up from the paper, grave. Teller watches the ruckus he’s caused with evident satisfaction. Bethe approaches.

I walk through the trees, gaining on two figures. The two men turn. One of them is Einstein.

GÖDEL Trees are the most inspiring structures.

Einstein senses the gravity. Nods. We leave Gödel staring up at the bare trees.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Einstein and I emerge from the trees. I pull a piece of paper from my breast pocket. Einstein takes it.

INSERT CUT: DARKNESS SPLIT BY GLOWING PARTICLES FIRING INTO EACH OTHER IN AN INCREASINGLY VIOLENT DISPLAY...

Einstein studies the paper... he nods.

The air around us CATCHES FIRE... THE PLANET EARTH, LONELY IN VAST DARKNESS, IS SUDDENLY ENGULFED IN FIRE.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script63.63.

I turn to leave.

I come past the secretaries. Bethe is there, excited.

I gesture SILENCE as I unlock the Rad Lab-

Bethe runs to the cabinet- takes out some papers- hands them to me, excited. I start to scan them, GRINNING-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script64.64.

Kitty opens the door to the Chevaliers, finger to her lips - I am holding the sleeping Peter.

Kitty shakes her head, 'not kidding'. Barbara takes Peter. I lead Chevalier to the kitchen...

I mix a tray of martinis. Chevalier watches, distracted.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script65.65.

My hands SLOW...

I look up at Chevalier. Grave.

We STARE at each other... BANG- Kitty barges in.

She sees us having a moment...

I pick up the tray.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script66.66.

I steal a glance at Robb, then look directly at the board-

Strauss is at the witness table facing the Senate Committee.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script67.67.

The Senate Aide shows Strauss and Counsel in.

Strauss gives a wry smile. Remembers-

INSERT CUT: STRAUSS APPROACHES EINSTEIN AND OPPENHEIMER- EINSTEIN BLOWS PAST WITHOUT ACKNOWLEDGING STRAUSS...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script68.68.

INSERT CUT: STRAUSS STARES- THE CROWD AT THE ISOTOPES HEARING LAUGHS...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script69.69.

I DRIVE Kitty and Peter through the 'town'... Kitty STARES at the newly built BASIC WOODEN STRUCTURES...

I stand in the hall, holding Peter, NERVOUS, as Kitty inspects the house... she pokes her head back in-

I walk Bethe through the security gate.

I step up to join Serber- throw up a slide. Condon, Neddermeyer, Kistiakowsky, Donald, Tolman, Bainbridge and Feynman, amongst other SCIENTISTS, are in attendance.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script70.70.

INSERT CUT: WOOD AND CONCRETE FRAGMENTS FLY...

INSERT CUT: A SHOCKWAVE DRIFTS ACROSS THE TOPS OF THE CHOPPY WATER...

I switch the lights on, step down to let Serber-

He sees me wave.

Serber reaches below the table, brings up a GOLDFISH BOWL-

He puts a large BRANDY GLASS next to the aquarium.

Serber drops THREE MARBLES into the bowl. The scientists stare at the almost-empty goldfish bowl.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script71.71.

He drops TWO MARBLES into the brandy glass.

Teller is at the back folding a paper plane.

MURMURS of dissent-

A HUBBUB develops- I process quickly, then-

Teller smiles a self-satisfied smile.

GROANS all around...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script72.72.

Teller SHRUGS.

As Strauss REMEMBERS we hear a SIREN and we-

Strauss is in a car, barreling along behind a POLICE ESCORT-

Strauss and his ASSISTANT rush down the corridor to a door-

Strauss enters- a table surrounded by AEC members- Oppenheimer is slouched at the table, pipe blazing, Bush presides... Strauss removes his overcoat, revealing a tuxedo...

Rabi uses a compass to indicate an area on the map...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script73.73.

Oppenheimer begrudgingly slides them over to Strauss.

OPPENHEIMER

Of course it was- you weren’t NICHOLS (O.S.) there, Lewis. Forgive me, doctor...

Strauss leans around the FLOWERS in the centre of the table to see who is speaking- Nichols, now a civilian.

Condon, Nichols and I watch cars pull up. Groves emerges.

INSERT CUT: MARBLES DROP INTO THE GOLDFISH BOWL.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script74.74.

SCIENTISTS emerge. A THIN YOUNG MAN offers his hand-

Bethe, Teller, Condon, Kistiakowsky, Donald, Bainbridge, Fuchs and Feynman and other scientists listen to-

INSERT CUT: A URANIUM "BULLET" IS FIRED INTO A SPHERE-

INSERT CUT: A SPHERICAL ARRAY OF EXPLOSIVES BLASTS INWARD-

Condon, Nichols and I show Groves the GROWING TOWN...

I open the door to the cabin containing my office-

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Groves notices the YOUNG WOMAN working behind the desk-

I slump into my chair. Groves is perplexed-

GROVES

Shut ’em down. CONDON Compartmentalization is the It’s only the top men. key to maintaining security-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script76.76.

Groves shrugs. Gets up to leave. Nichols rolls his eyes.

Groves and Condon leave- I corner Nichols-

Strauss reaches to the centre of the table to move the flowers from between him and Nichols-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss holds up the filter papers.

Oppenheimer nods reluctantly...

Bush nods. Oppenheimer looks incredulous-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script78.78.

Strauss holds up the filter papers, raises his eyebrows...

Condon and I are led across the field by J. Ernest WILKINS...

Wilkins shows us to SZILARD and FERMI. A scientist with GLASSES takes notes. The group approaches the atomic pile...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I spot Glasses SCRIBBLING - I GRAB his pen- he FLINCHES-

Condon and I have just passed through-

We turn to see a twenty-three-year-old young woman on the other side of the barrier. This is Lilli HORNIG.

I smile at this. Turn to Condon.

Condon and I peer up at the equipment. Groves STORMS in-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script80.80.

CONDON

Visiting the Met Lab- GROVES(CONT’D)

Why?!

Condon looks at me. I say nothing. He turns to Groves-

CONDON (CONT’D)

You can’t talk to us like GROVES (CONT’D) this. We have every right- You have just the rights I

give you! No more, no less.

I look steadily at Groves.

Condon storms out. Groves turns to me.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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General Groves looks at me. Nods.

Groves, in CIVILIAN CLOTHES, testifies. I watch...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script82.82.

Groves shifts, knowing what’s about to be asked...

I greet Lawrence and Lomanitz as they get out of a car-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I pat Lomanitz on the shoulder.

As the group assembles, General Groves speaks to Lawrence.

Oppenheimer theatrically drops three marbles into the quarter- full goldfish bowl, then ADDS TWO MORE- the room APPLAUDS. Oppenheimer BOWS, steps down. Lawrence BOUNCES up-

Groves looks at me. I shrug. He leaves.

Strauss places the filter papers back down on the table...

STRAUSS

There were rumours of OPPENHEIMER espionage at Los Alamos- Unsubstantiated-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script84.84.

STRAUSS(CONT’D)

I’ve heard there were OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D) Communists on the project- We didn’t knowingly employ were any of them involved any Communists. with discussions of the Super?

Strauss watches Oppenheimer glare at Nichols.

I pick up the phone-

I stand at Nichols’ desk.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Nichols TOSSES a security pass across the desk.

I testify, Kitty behind me...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script86.86.

A TAXI pulls up. I get out, carrying a bag.

I enter, without seeing a CAR FOLLOWING. The PASSENGER jumps out, while the DRIVER checks the time, makes a note.

I move to the elevators, watched by the passenger.

At the door to 805 I reach into my bag...

...and remove a small BUNCH OF FLOWERS. I knock...

The door opens to reveal JEAN TATLOCK.

Tatlock GRABS the flowers. As I follow her in, she DUMPS them in the wastebasket...

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Robb refers to his papers- Kitty watches...

Tatlock and I sit across the room from each other, naked.

I sit at the table, self-conscious, testifying...

Kitty watches me testify. I am NAKED...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script88.88.

Kitty watches Tatlock, also naked, STRADDLE me, head on my shoulder, facing Kitty...

As Tatlock GRINDS on me she locks eyes with Kitty...

Tatlock studies me from across the room.

I slowly shake my head.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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All eyes on me, clothed and alone again...

Behind me, Kitty’s face is stone...

INSERT CUT: HOT BATH RUNNING. PILL BOTTLE. DOWNTURNED HEAD IN THE WATER. THE SOUND OF FEET STAMPING, STAMPING...

I JAM my eyes closed, shake off the image-

As the room breaks up, Kitty speaks privately to me through CLENCHED TEETH as she gathers her things. No eye contact.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script90.90.

She DROPS her bag, spilling the contents. Garrison spots a small FLASK as Kitty sweeps it into her purse. I CROUCH-

She STANDS- I follow- she TURNS back- in my face-

I don’t answer. She leaves. Garrison steps up.

I stroll across the campus, enter an administrative building.

I knock. Johnson opens the door, SURPRISED.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Groves sits opposite. I stare out the window.

Johnson smiles, beckons me in. Indicates a SECOND MAN-

I stare out the window. Groves sits opposite.

Alone on the couch, I glance up, NERVOUS, as a man in uniform walks past. As he sits, I study the back of his head.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script92.92.

Pash sits down next to me, opposite Johnson.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The disarming friendliness of the truly dangerous.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script94.94.

Pash spreads his palms...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Groves is staring at me like I just crapped my pants.

I am up front. Robb questioning-

Groves is on the stand, in civilian clothes-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script96.96.

Pash is testifying.

Pash gazes, unblinking, into my eyes...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Pash stares at me. I finally keep my mouth shut.

I nod at Pash. Get to my feet.

Groves takes in the story.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script98.98.

I turn to watch the scenery trundle past.

Groves nods.

I study the back of Boris Pash’s head...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I lift my head at this.

INSERT CUT: MARBLES DROP INTO THE BOWL... THREE-QUARTERS FULL...

Serber and I walk down the street. Snow falling.

We head towards Fuller Lodge...

A CHRISTMAS PARTY. DEBAUCHED. Kitty, in SANTA HAT, serves/spikes the EGGNOG. Bethe, Teller, Charlotte Serber, Neddermeyer, Kistiakowsky, Donald, Hornig, Bainbridge, Fuchs, Feynman amongst the revelers. I have Ruth cornered, glancing over at Kitty, who pretends she wasn’t looking at me and GRABS at the nearest male arm- pushing eggnog...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script100.100.

I take her glass. Sip from it...

I turn- Tolman and Groves enter, brushing off snow...

They step aside to reveal... NIELS BOHR. I grin.

Bohr holds court. I listen at the back.

The crowd LAUGHS, loving it. Bohr peels off to talk to me.

I sip my drink, watching Bohr read the boards. Tolman, Teller, Bethe and Serber sprawl, party hats, TINSEL scarves...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Serber and Tolman GRIN. I nod. Bohr notices us relax...

Bohr turns to Teller and the others-

They shuffle out. Bohr looks at the MARBLES. Turns to me...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script102.102.

I take this in. Charlotte Serber enters-

I look at my watch, surprised... look at Bohr, who nods 'Go.'

Kitty, on horseback, finds my horse, tied up. She dismounts, moving into the trees... She finds me curled up at the base of a tree in the SNOW, distraught.

She crouches, touches my shoulder- I look up, ASHAMED.

INSERT CUT: A WOMAN, FACE-DOWN IN THE BATH, A CUSHION BELOW...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: TATLOCK KNEELS IN THE BATH, POPPING PILLS. SINKS SERENELY ONTO CUSHIONS UNDER THE WATER...

INSERT CUT: GLOVED HANDS HOLD TATLOCK’S STRUGGLING HEAD UNDERWATER...

I SHAKE OFF the image...

INSERT CUT: OPPENHEIMER, NAKED, SHAKES HIS HEAD AT TATLOCK.

Kitty SLAPS me in the face. I look up at her, bleary-eyed...

I vacantly preside over a shambles- the goldfish bowl is FILLED with marbles. As is the glass tumbler... Donald, Bainbridge, Feynman watch the others squabble-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script104.104.

DONALD

You’re on your own, pal. HORNIG

(to Serber) Your reproductive system’s more exposed than mine. Presumably.

KISTIAKOWSKY

The implosion device is NEDDERMEYER nowhere. You can’t rush everything,

Oppie.

KISTIAKOWSKY (CONT’D)

There’s rushing and there’s BETHE getting on with it- pick one, Teller’s not helping- I’ve will ya? been asking for calculations

on the implosion lenses for weeks-

TELLER

The British can do it- Fuchs- FUCHS

Absolutely.

BETHE

It’s your job, Teller! TELLER(CONT’D)

I’m engaged in research-

Teller simply walks away. As he passes me-

I sigh. RISE, clear and direct-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I head for the door-

Teller is held at the gate. I approach. We face off in the 'street' like gunslingers.

Teller considers this. Nods, turns to the GUARD-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script106.106.

Me, Bush, Nichols (CIVILIAN), Rabi, Fermi, Strauss and others.

Rabi opens his compasses wider...

He draws a circle around Moscow...

And a circle around St Petersburg...

He points at the USA...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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As I listen to them I hear the sound of FEET STAMPING...

I tense up as the STAMPING SOUND gets LOUDER and LOUDER...

INSERT CUT: DOZENS OF FEET STAMPING, FASTER AND FASTER...

INSERT CUT:... SO FAST THE FEET BREAK RHYTHM, CAUSING CACOPHONY...

I JAM my eyes CLOSED, SHAKE OFF the image- the sound STOPS-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script108.108.

OPPENHEIMER

There was no spy at Los BUSH Alamos! Gentlemen, let’s not get

sidetracked.

Strauss nods. Rises. Much of the room follows suit, leaving.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss shrugs. As he, Lawrence and Nichols leave together, Borden approaches.

INSERT CUT: BORDEN SPEEDS THROUGH THE NIGHT...

INSERT CUT: A ROCKET STREAKS PAST, RIPPING APART THE DARK...

INSERT CUT: A MISSILE RISES THROUGH THE CLOUDS...

I hear the sound of FEET STAMPING...

INSERT CUT: DOZENS OF FEET STAMPING FASTER AND FASTER...

I peer into the future...

INSERT CUT: HUNDREDS OF MISSILES RISE THROUGH THE CLOUDS...

I look at the map... Rabi’s circles EXPAND like raindrops in a puddle...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script110.110.

But that’s not the answer Borden wanted. He leaves. Fermi and Bush remain. Rabi leans over to me.

Strauss shifts uneasily in his chair.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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RAIN. I ride my horse through the outskirts. Spot a FLIER stapled to a telegraph pole, ink running: "THE IMPACT OF THE GADGET ON CIVILIZATION - DISCUSSION, BLDG T31 SUNDAY, 11AM".

I enter to find forty scientists meeting. Hornig is speaking.

Heads turn as they notice me.

The audience is now turned my way...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script112.112.

Some of the scientists nod. Scattered applause...

INSERT CUT: THE GOLDFISH BOWL IS FULL OF MARBLES...

I walk down the main drag with Groves.

Groves watches Kitty approach- she’s HEAVILY PREGNANT.

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An IMPLOSION DEVICE ROCKS the canyon. Groves, Fuchs and I raise our heads- Kistiakowsky and Hornig rush to the device-

I put my PIPE on the wall as we CLIMB out of the bunker...

Kistiakowsky waves a trail of ticker tape-

Fuchs hands me my pipe. I dust it off...

INSERT CUT: FLYING OVER DESERT TO FIND FRANK STANDING BY A JEEP WITH AN ARMY OFFICER.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script114.114.

INSERT CUT: A STEEL TOWER IS RAISED IN THE DESERT...

Behind a berm, Groves, Fuchs, Frank and I watch Kistiakowsky and Hornig arm a detonator. Fuchs shuffles lower.

Kistiakowsky triggers A VAST EXPLOSION, SPLINTERING THE TOWER, SENDING A MASSIVE PLUME OF FIRE INTO THE AIR... the SHOCKWAVE throws DEBRIS onto me and Groves...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I walk across the lobby- someone GRABS my arm- Szilard, with the Scientist with Glasses in tow. I glance out the window, where Groves is getting into a car, waiting for me...

Glasses holds out a paper- I PUSH it back- Glasses FLINCHES-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script116.116.

OPPENHEIMER

Fermi’s in the meeting. And SZILARD (CONT’D) Lawrence- They’re not you. You’re the

great salesman of science- you can convince anyone of anything. Even yourself.

I sit on a couch next to Fermi- Lawrence, Groves and Bush in chairs. Secretary of War STIMSON presides. Military, scientists and officials are scattered through the room.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Groves carefully monitors my effect on the room...

Groves registers the pivot...

A politician, BYRNES, clears his throat politely-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script118.118.

I say nothing. Groves looks directly at me.

I meet Groves’ gaze. Stay silent... Nod.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Stimson senses the unease in the room...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Frank shows Groves and me the site plan...

I point to a crew digging a trench from the base of the tower.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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FRANK

The 15th?! That’s not- GROVES

The 15th!

Frank sees my expression-

I show the plan to the division heads.

INSERT CUT: I ENTER A TENT AT THE BASE OF THE TOWER- THE SILVER SPHERE OF THE BOMB IS SURROUNDED BY THE TEAM...

INSERT CUT: THE BOMB IS HOISTED UP IN TO THE TOWER...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The team exchange looks-

A THUNDERCLAP takes us into-

White sheets FLAP CRAZILY in the wind... through the window we see Kitty put her drink down reluctantly. She comes out to grab a sheet that has come loose from the line... notices a JEEP idling at the gate, ARMED GUARDS patiently waiting.

I emerge from the house carrying an overnight bag. Kitty, one hand on the washing line, turns to look at me, curious.

I watch the sheets flapping. Glance at the guards...

She nods. I head towards the waiting jeep.

I turn, looking at Kitty amongst the FLAPPING SHEETS...

A BANG as the final implosion test goes off... Kistiakowsky and Fuchs raise their heads... Kistiakowsky shows Fuchs the tape, grave.

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I watch the last TECHNICIAN come down. I nod at the man, then start my lonely climb... I stare at the silver sphere of the first atomic bomb, its surface STUDDED with detonators, WIRES DRAPED across it like spaghetti. Thunder RUMBLES. I watch the approaching storm...

Army tents. A WINDMILL SPINS FURIOUSLY...

Fermi moves through the team, taking bets...

Rabi pulls out some bills-

The scientists groan and laugh. Soldiers look at each other: 'What the hell?' Groves corners the army WEATHERMAN.

The weatherman gets on his radio. Kistiakowsky BURSTS in-

The phone rings -

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script124.124.

I have the phone to my ear -

I study Kistiakowsky. Take the bet.

THUNDER. Rabi calls over-

The weatherman laughs. Then GRABS the radio -

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The last trucks drive away, lightning on the horizon. The bomb sits there, impervious to peals of DRY THUNDER...

Groves, the weatherman and I watch rain LASH the desert...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script126.126.

Groves considers this. Turns to the weatherman.

Groves and me, alone. Rain pelting down outside.

Groves takes this in. Picks the scab-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I check my watch.

I listen-

Searchlights settle on the gleaming steel tower. A line of lights leading from the blackness of the night-time desert to the tower comes on...

Groves and I come out into gentle rain. The wind has fallen off. Frank comes up to meet us.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script128.128.

Kistiakowsky and military personal, including BAINBRIDGE, get out of a truck. Kistiakowsky THROWS a SWITCH on the ground...

Rabi, Fermi and Bethe come outside. A SOLDIER hands them WELDER’S GLASS...

Kistiakowsky and Bainbridge get out of the truck and enter the bunker.

Bainbridge pulls out a key. UNLOCKS the arming switches. Kistiakowsky nods, Bainbridge THROWS THE SWITCHES.

A SIGNAL ROCKET flares up into the air...

Rabi, Fermi and the others watch the rocket go up-

A group of scientists, including Teller, Feynman and Lawrence, watch the distant rocket sputter...

DARK GLASSES are handed out. Feynman refuses, jumping up into the cab of a truck-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Feynman TAPS the windshield-

Teller, in dark glasses, is APPLYING SUNSCREEN at night-

Feynman looks at Teller. Looks at the glass, shakes his head, grinning...

Groves moves to me-

Groves shakes my hand.

I watch Bainbridge take his place at the KILL SWITCH.

Bainbridge nods, watching the meter of the X-unit like a hawk. A nervous hawk.

A loudspeaker broadcasts the countdown-

The two-minute rocket goes up-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The observers lie on the ground, facing away from the site.

Feynman TUNES the radio into the countdown relay-

Lawrence jumps in next to Feynman. The scientists peer into the distance through the windshield... Teller, pale with sunscreen, adjusts his dark glasses...

Bainbridge PEERS at the X-unit... Frank and I peer at the tower... The electronic counter STARTS: 45, 44, 43, 42...

FOUR RED LIGHTS flicker on-

The bomb WAKES, detonators on its surface HUMMING...

The NEEDLE on the X-unit SHOOTS to the right-

I pull on a pair of WELDER’S GOGGLES...

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Rabi lifts his head to peek around, welder’s glass over his eyes... Groves shakes hands with Bush...

Feynman peers through the windshield. Teller studies the horizon...

A GONG sounds at T-minus 10- Bainbridge peers at the needle, which BOBBLES- his hand FLINCHES- the needle settles...

Frank and I peer through the holes in the concrete.

Kistiakowsky SCRAMBLES out of the bunker-

-and up onto the embankment, eyes locked on the tiny glow of the distant tower...

I stare straight ahead...

Bainbridge watches the needle as the counter goes down to-

... zero.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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My breath stops- an agonizing instant before- SILENT LIGHT. FULL BRIGHT NOON SUNNY DAYLIGHT.

Rabi sees SUDDEN DAYTIME- turns to the LIGHT, peers through the welder’s glass atBLINDING SILENT WHITE...

Lawrence is stepping out of the car as Feynman SHUTS his eyes against INSTANT DAYLIGHT... aHUSHED INTAKE OF BREATHfrom the crowd of sunglasses-clad distant observers...

All we can hear is my TREMULOUS BREATHING as the LIGHT becomes less BLINDING, resolving into a FIREBALL,BRIGHT AS THE SUN, BUT GIANT... I YANK off my goggles... watch the ROILING PLASMA become more visible in its HELLISH CONTORTIONS... CLIMBING into the sky like the DEVIL’S CLAW...

My PUPILS are PINPRICKS-

And then- CRACK!!...!!!... !!!!... !!!!!...

I am hit by the WIND and DUST of theSHOCKWAVE-

THE THUNDER OF A THOUSAND STORMSROLLS OVER, DEAFENING-

Kistiakowsky is BLOWN OFF HIS FEET...

With the wave of DARK THUNDER, TERRIBLE BEAUTY GIVES WAY TO FEAR... I TREMBLE as I watch the glowing cloud climb to its full height, its inner fire dimming to a HELLISH SCARLET... DUST CLOUD RISING, CRACKLING WITH PURPLISH ENERGY...

As the sound diminishes to a RUMBLE and night REGAINS the desert floor, Frank turns to me-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I nod, awestruck...

Startled murmurs, then a few claps... then CRAZY, CHEERING, CLAPPING, DANCING... in the middle of it all Rabi tries to understand what just happened...

ECSTATIC CHEERING... even Teller SMILES... Feynman pulls out some BONGOS and hops onto the hood of the truck... people DANCE to his PAGAN RHYTHM as the dawn CREEPS IN...

Kistiakowsky GRABS me in a big HUG- steps back- holding out his hand for payment. I pull out my wallet, frown- there’s nothing in it-

Kistiakowsky GRINS-

Rabi, still amidst the celebration, watches a car pull up.

I get out, walking like GARY FUCKING COOPER- the crowd spots me... goes NUTS.

Groves turns to an AIDE -

I nod at Groves, move through the sea of congratulations to find Serber...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script134.134.

Serber’s face falls, perturbed-

Serber grins. I spot Groves on a FIELD TELEPHONE- then am HOISTED ONTO JOYFUL SHOULDERS...

Kitty wrangles the kitchen phone while she feeds our baby daughter and young son-

Kitty freezes, letting the phone come off her ear...

Kitty smiles, tears forming. It is done.

FADE IN:

I watch CRATES hoisted on trucks by the army...

I am talking to the AIR FORCE OFFICER who is supervising the crating of equipment-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I lose sight of the bomb as THE CRATE IS CLOSED.

Groves appears at my side, watching the loading...

Frustrated, I drop my cigarette and GRIND it out-

Groves turns to leave -

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script136.136.

I watch Groves leave, uneasy. A truck pulls out, REVEALING TELLER. He crosses, watching the loaded truck move away...

I look at Teller.

I watch another truck pull out...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Kitty comes downstairs to find me sitting at the kitchen table. The phone in front of me.

I pace my office, agitated.

I BOLT into-

Charlotte is patching the PA to the radio-

Frank is doing paperwork when the PA WHISTLES-

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script138.138.

As Frank emerges, others DRIFT into the corridor, shocked...

He hears BANGING and CHEERING- through the window SOLDIERS BEAT on trash-can lids. Frank and the scientists try uncertain smiles and handshakes...

I listen to the radio-

I white-knuckle the phone...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I gently put down the phone...

I walk in a relieved daze...

Horns HONK, soldiers CHEER... people WAVE... I nod back...

A restless, excitable CROWD is packed into the bleachers, like a HIGH-SCHOOL PEP RALLY...

Kitty reaches forward and adjusts my tie. We hear the sound of DOZENS OF FEET STAMPING RHYTHMICALLY...

The impatient crowd is STAMPING IN UNISON...

Kitty nods at me, I take a breath and PUSH through the door-

As I walk past the rear bleachers I get a close view of DOZENS OF FEET STAMPING IN UNISON... the STAMPING FEET GET FASTER as I approach the stage...

The STAMPING GROWS OPPRESSIVE- FASTER and FASTER until RHYTHM BREAKS, causing CACOPHONY which PEAKS as I step up...

I raise my hands in a theatrically victorious gesture- the crowd CHEERS...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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LOUDER CHEERING...

Though the crowd is still CHEERING, their sound DIMINISHES...

CHEERS. CHEERS. CHEERS. BUTNO SOUND. As I look out at the EXCITED FACES I can hear my own BREATHING... I carry on-

The crowd seems to go NUTS, but all we hear is the QUIET CREAKING OF SEATS and SHUFFLE OF FEET as they REACT, HANDS SILENTLY CLAPPING, MOUTHS SILENTLY JAWING... I try again-

The CHEERING AND CLAPPING PEOPLE GET TO THEIR FEET in MORTIFYING SILENCE...

I stare at them, straining to hear something, then-

PIERCING SCREAMS not cheers, asINSTANT DAYLIGHT POURS IN THE WINDOWS- BRIGHTERAND BRIGHTER-

My eyes are pinpricks as I see CHEERING/SCREAMING MOUTHS STRETCHED GROTESQUELY WIDE-

CRACK!!... !!!...!!!! ... THE THUNDER OF A THOUSAND STORMS ROLLS OVER, DEAFENING-

I see FLESH RIPPED FROM THE SMILING YOUNG FACES... I see PLASMA ROILING and the DEVIL’S CLAW reach into the night sky... I see piles of ASHES where the young crowd was cheering...

I DRIFT through a SILENT, KINETIC WHIRLWIND OF CELEBRATION CLAPPED on the back, KISSED... NODDING and HOLLOW SMILES...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I see a YOUNG WOMAN LAUGHING... I STEP on something, look down to see my foot inside a CHARRED CORPSE... I look up, SHAKING OFF THE IMAGE... I see young people MAKING OUT under the bleachers, a hand up a sweater... I see the young woman again but NOW SHE JUST CRIES AND CRIES AND CRIES...

DRIFTING through... I see a young man sitting, back to the wall, WEEPING, a woman trying to console him...

As I exit, REVELERS RUN PAST, JOYFUL... turning, I see a young physicist at the wall, bent double...

As I pass, he looks up, DISTRAUGHT, VOMIT AROUND HIS MOUTH.

Relief. Gentle formality. I look at the coffee table:Time magazine- me on the cover: "FATHER OF THE ATOMIC BOMB".

An AIDE on softly clicking heels, points at the magazine.

I look up at her. Blank.

Truman comes from behind his desk to shake my hand-

Byrnes nods, sits. I take a seat. Truman leans on the desk.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I can’t think of an answer.

TRUMAN (CONT’D)

You helped save a lot of OPPENHEIMER American lives. What we did And Nagasaki. at Hiroshima was-

Your country owes you a great debt.

OPPENHEIMER

I’m not sure I could give a- TRUMAN (CONT’D)

Never.

I look at the President, incredulous...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I taper off.

Truman laughs. But I’m not joking. Truman looks to Byrnes for help.

I WRING my hands, deeply uncomfortable...

Truman looks at me differently. Pulls the crisp white handkerchief from his breast pocket and offers it-

Truman gestures to Byrnes, they both RISE. I get to my feet. Awkward. As I leave I hear -

The door of the Oval Office CLOSES on me...

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script144.144.

Walking past I notice my face staring back at me from the cover of the magazine on the table...

Strauss sits talking with the Senate Aide.

INSERT CUT: LIFE MAGAZINE- "OPPENHEIMER, NO. 1 THINKER ON ATOMIC ENERGY"... OPPENHEIMER RUNS A GAUNTLET OF FLASHBULBS... OPPENHEIMER AND KITTY ARE PHOTOGRAPHED AT OLDEN MANOR...

INSERT CUT: FRANK WORKS A RANCH IN COLORADO...

INSERT CUT: LOMANITZ SWINGS A HAMMER...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: CHEVALIER CARRIES SHOPPING, STEPPING AROUND CHICKENS IN A RURAL FRENCH ALLEY...

INSERT CUT: STRAUSS MOVES THE FLOWERS ON THE TABLE IN THE HOTEL CONFERENCE ROOM, WATCHING OPPENHEIMER...

INSERT CUT: HEADLINE: "TRUMAN ANNOUNCES H-BOMB PROGRAM"...

Drink in hand, I watch the room sing 'Happy Birthday' to Strauss. Ruth Tolman is next to me, staring at the NEWSPAPER.

I turn to Ruth, sympathetic.

I nod, understanding. She downs her drink and leaves.

Strauss is there with his adult children- I glance at them, raise a glass, then turn away. Strauss stands there, humiliated. The couple awkwardly moves off.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script146.146.

Strauss looks at me with concern...

INSERT CUT: FUCHS HANDS OPPENHEIMER HIS PIPE...

Strauss moves off. I stand there. Frozen.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: OPPENHEIMER, DRIVING, CHECKS HIS REAR-VIEW MIRROR, SPOTS A SEDAN FOLLOWING HIM...

INSERT CUT: KITTY, FROM THE KITCHEN WINDOW, SPOTS A SUITED MAN PICKING THROUGH THEIR TRASH...

Oppenheimer is lecturing... Strauss is in the crowd...

Strauss notices two generals exchanging unfavorable looks.

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Serber and MORRISON lecture using slides we never see.

I watch as part of a large audience.

Serber changes the slide. I react slightly.

Changes slide. I LOOK AWAY from the screen. I hear the sound of FEET STAMPING as Morrison continues...

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script150.150.

I light my pipe. Teller comes up.

I remember-

INSERT CUT: BLACKETT TAKES A MOUTHFUL OF APPLE...

I smile to myself, rueful...

I look at Teller.

Teller looks at me. Hurt.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I say nothing.

I give my leaving address, Groves by my side. The THOUSANDS of members of the Los Alamos community listen...

THUNDEROUS APPLAUSE echoes around the mountains...

Strauss and Counsel drink coffee. The Senate Aide BURSTS in-

The Senate Aide holds up TIME MAGAZINE: Strauss is on the cover- "THE STRAUSS AFFAIR, SENATE V. PRESIDENT".

The Counsel looks over Senate Aide’s shoulder-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The Senate Aide is perturbed. Looks up at Strauss.

The Senate Aide stares at Strauss, realizing...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I sit there testifying. Robb checks his notes...

I think back to my congressional testimony...

The room is all chuckles and smiles at my performance...

The room LAUGHS appreciatively. I lean over to Volpe -

Volpe glances back at Lewis Strauss, eyes down, ENRAGED...

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script154.154.

I sit on the bed, Garrison and his team go over notes. Kitty raids the mini-bar.

Kitty is laughing as she opens a miniature with her teeth.

Kitty THROWS the miniature at me- it SMASHES into the wall-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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She stalks into the bathroom, SLAMMING the door. Garrison watches me clean up the miniature...

The Senate Aide stares at Strauss in morbid fascination...

SENATE AIDE

It wasn’t Nichols or Hoover STRAUSS or one of Truman’s guys- it Borden didn’t take any was you. You gave the file to convincing... Borden... you set him on Oppenheimer, convinced him to-

Nichols is behind the desk, but Strauss commands the room, instructing Borden...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: ROOM 2022 IS OPENED UP. DUSTED, TABLES ARRANGED...

INSERT CUT: BORDEN PULLS PAPER FROM HIS TYPEWRITER. HE SEALS AN ENVELOPE...

Strauss opens the door to Oppenheimer...

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Nichols hands the indictment to Oppenheimer, who sits and reads. Strauss hands Oppenheimer a drink...

Oppenheimer looks up from the letter.

Oppenheimer rises. In a daze. Strauss takes his arm...

INSERT CUT: THE GRAY BOARD TAKE THEIR SEATS IN ROOM...

INSERT CUT: ROGER ROBB TAKES HIS SEAT...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: ROBB OPENS A MASSIVE BLACK BINDER...

INSERT CUT: A BLACK BINDER IS PLACED IN FRONT OF EACH BOARD MEMBER...

INSERT CUT: GARRISON, AT HIS TABLE IN ROOM 2022, LOOKS COVETOUSLY AT THE BLACK BINDERS GRACING EACH PLACE BUT HIS...

Strauss sips his drink. Smiles at Nichols...

Oppenheimer is seated at the witness table...

The Senate Aide looks like he ate a bad nut.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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CLOSE ON: A LETTER- AEC LETTERHEAD- "DEAR DR OPPENHEIMER..."

I look up from Nichols’ letter- SHELL-SHOCKED.

I hand the letter back to Nichols. Strauss takes my arm...

Strauss gently guides me down the steps...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss, like a parent, puts me into the back of his car.

I sit in the back, shadows flicking across my face...

Kitty and I sit with Joe Volpe.

I look at Kitty. Nod.

I watch Garrison scramble to make notes...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb consults a paper in his black binder.

Robb looks at Gray. Who nods.

Garrison is shocked. I shake my head.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I SNAP at the absurdity-

Garrison puts a calming hand on my arm-

Garrison points at the BLACK BINDERS in front of them all-

Gray looks at Garrison, stony-faced.

GRAY

Perhaps a brief recess is in OPPENHEIMER order! If I may? You gentlemen have

my words. If you say it’s from a transcript then I’ll accept it. I’ve already explained that I made up a cock-and-bull story.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I look from smug Robb to the expectant board members...

Robb backs down, SATISFIED.

Oppenheimer and Garrison take a break. Rabi approaches.

Garrison looks around to see Robb conferring with his team.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script164.164.

INSERT CUT: I SIP FROM RUTH’S DRINK AT THE CHRISTMAS PARTY. RICHARD ENTERS, BANGING SNOW OFF HIS SHOULDERS...

Rabi tries not to smile. Shakes his head.

Rabi is testifying.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I sit, exhausted. A segment of orange drops into my lap -

I 'sip' at the orange. Rabi spots Lawrence coming down the corridor- Rabi straightens to his full height- STARES DOWN Lawrence, who looks from Rabi to me. Then TURNS and leaves.

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script166.166.

Robb cross-examines Rabi-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss watches with satisfaction as Teller testifies.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script168.168.

With that, the Chairman BANGS his gavel...

Robb addresses the board...

I glance sideways at Garrison, who almost smiles-

I watch as Borden is sworn in.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb’s assistant distributes copies of the letter...

Garrison holds up a finger, FRANTICALLY reading ahead-

Garrison holds up the letter -

I scan down the letter for what he’s seen. My face falls...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Garrison says nothing. He looks at me, frustrated.

I turn the letter face down, staring at its blank whiteness...

I watch the STENOGRAPHER calmly type this into the record...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Devastated, I cannot meet the eye of anyone in the room. Garrison gets up from his place. Sits down next to me.

Strauss and his Counsel take their seats as the Chairman calls to order. Strauss looks around the room, CHEERFULLY.

Strauss peers at a FAMILIAR man in GLASSES, DAVID HILL- Szilard’s note-taking scientist WHOSE PEN OPPENHEIMER GRABBED...

Strauss glances at Counsel, satisfied.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss narrows his eyes...

Hill takes a sip of water before continuing...

Counsel turns to Strauss, who is FIXATED on Hill. The Senate Aide REACTS, surprised. MURMURS echo through the chamber...

The audience REACTS- Strauss SHAKES his head- the Chairman BANGS the gavel-

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Vannevar Bush is sworn in.

Strauss fumes as Hill reads his statement.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Teller, in the audience, stares at Hill...

Groves is testifying.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Groves gets up, walks past me with a formal nod.

Garrison checks his watch.

Kitty comes around the corner. Unsteady. I watch her walk towards us, not entirely straight... she catches my eye-

Kitty is at the witness table. From behind I can see her fiddling distractedly with her purse...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb gets up to cross-examine...

Strauss watches Hill continue to answer questions...

Hill takes a beat to consider this.

Strauss strokes his chin, feigning indifference.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb tries to put himself in Kitty’s eyeline...

She will not meet his gaze.

Kitty fiddles with her purse...

She FREEZES. The Board members look at her. Garrison looks at me...

Kitty is focused on her purse...

And then Kitty LOOKS UP at Robb, pure STEEL-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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ROBB

Not really- KITTY (CONT’D)

Long enough to have forgotten.

ROBB (CONT’D)

Did you turn in the card or KITTY (CONT’D) rip it up? The card whose existence I’ve

forgotten?

ROBB (CONT’D)

Your Communist Party KITTY (CONT’D) membership card- I haven’t the slightest idea.

Garrison and I hang on her every word...

ROBB

But- KITTY (CONT’D)

Seventeen years ago. My mistake.

ROBB (CONT’D)

But you- KITTY (CONT’D)

Sorry, eighteen. Yes, eighteen years ago.

Robb sighs patiently.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Kitty smiles sweetly-

ROBB

Yes. KITTY (CONT’D)

Yes.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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ROBB

Don’t you understand what I KITTY (CONT’D) am trying to get at? Yes, I do.

ROBB (CONT’D)

Why don’t you answer it that KITTY (CONT’D) way? I don’t like the phrase

'having anything to do with the Communist Party' because Robert never had anything to do with the Communist Party as such. I know he gave money for Spanish refugees. I know he took an intellectual interest in Communist ideas-

Kitty laughs the laugh of the free.

Gray shoots a look at Evans. CHUCKLES around the room. Garrison looks at me. Nods. She did good.

I watch Teller testify.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Teller gets up from the table, as he walks past me he holds out his hand...

I shake his hand.

Garrison shrugs.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Garrison drives off. Volpe turns to me...

Volpe shrugs. Embraces me. Gets in his car.

I turn. Einstein steps into the light.

Einstein considers this. Nods slowly.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script184.184.

Strauss BURSTS in, fuming...

Strauss realizes. Shakes his head at himself.

The Senate Aide nods.

Strauss GLARES at the Senate Aide.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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INSERT CUT: STRAUSS WATCHES OPPENHEIMER HAND EINSTEIN HIS HAT AS THEY SPEAK DOWN AT THE LAKE...

INSERT CUT: AS STRAUSS APPROACHES, EINSTEIN WALKS PAST WITHOUT ACKNOWLEDGING HIM, CLEARLY UPSET...

I am back at the witness table. Robb squares up.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

GadgetGadget2023-04-212023-04-21FINAL Shooting ScriptFINAL Shooting Script186.186.

Strauss is pacing now...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I struggle to find an answer for Robb...

OPPENHEIMER

We freely used the atomic ROBB bomb. In fact, doctor, you assisted

in selecting the target for the drop of the atomic bomb on Japan?

Now I can hear the sound of FEET STAMPING...

OPPENHEIMER(CONT’D)

Yes. ROBB (CONT’D)

You knew, did you not, that the dropping of that atomic bomb on the target you had selected would kill or injure thousands of civilians, is that correct?

The feet are stamping FASTER and FASTER...

ROBB

Seventy thousand? At both OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D) Hiroshima and- One hundred and ten thousand

at both.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I nod.

OPPENHEIMER

Well, it was technically ROBB (CONT’D) successful. Oh, technically.

The stamping feet are LOUDER and FASTER...

Strauss TURNS on the Senate Aide-

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I search for an answer- the FEET STAMPING ever LOUDER-

OPPENHEIMER

This was not a problem with ROBB (CONT’D) which I was confronted. I’m confronting you with it

now, sir. Would you have opposed the dropping of a thermonuclear weapon on Japan because of moral scruples?

OPPENHEIMER

We set forth our- ROBB (CONT’D)

I’m asking you about it, not 'we'.

Strauss PACES the room, FURIOUS-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Robb gets right in my face, incredulous-

ROBB

You supported the dropping of OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D) the atom bomb on Japan, What do you mean 'support'? didn’t you?

The STAMPING breaks rhythm to becomeCACOPHONOUS...

ROBB

I didn’t ask you that, OPPENHEIMER (CONT’D) doctor! I would have worked on it,

yes. But to run a labouratory is one thing, to advise a government is another.

THE LIGHT OF A THOUSAND SUNSPOURS IN THE WINDOW...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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LIGHT STABS THROUGHCRACKS IN THE WALL...

PLASTER BREAKS AWAYAS LIGHT POURS INTO THE ROOM... I JAM my eyes closed, MORE AND MORE EXPOSED...

The sound STOPS. The light is gone.

I open my eyes, exhausted...

Silence.

Strauss has stopped...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Strauss looks at the Senate Aide’s neck, wondering if he could get one hand all the way around it.

The Senate Aide looks down at his buck slip, counts his tally.

Strauss looks at the Senate Aide. He smiles.

I sit with Garrison and listen to Gray pass judgement...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I barely hear the rest...

The board rises, aides start collecting files. Still dazed, I take the phone from Garrison-

I take a breath. Not trusting my voice...

We hear the press gathering behind the doors. Strauss checks his tie in the mirror. Smooths his hair. The Senate Aide enters, buck slip in hand.

Strauss freezes, absorbing the impact.

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The Senate Aide leaves him hanging for a beat.

Strauss doesn’t know what to do or where to look.

The Senate Aide checks his tally...

(COLOUR)

I approach Kitty, who’s been crying.

Strauss listens to the hungry press pack beyond the door. He TURNS on the Senate Aide-

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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The Senate Aide picks up Strauss’s hat and coat...

Hands Strauss his hat and coat...

Strauss looks at the Senate Aide like he wants to kill him. The Senate Aide OPENS the office door and the FLASHBULBS EAT STRAUSS ALIVE as we-

(COLOUR)

I approach the figure by the lake. The figure’s hat BLOWS off, releasing a mass of GREY CURLS. Strauss watches from the doorway as I scoop up Einstein’s hat...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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I hand him his hat. He looks out at the lake.

Einstein turns to me.

Dozens of formally attired GUESTS. Kitty by my side. Many faces, now older, are there - Rabi, Lawrence, Frank, Jackie...

LYNDON JOHNSON places a MEDAL around my neck. I SMILE and shake the President’s hand. Kitty BEAMS as she, in turn, shakes Johnson’s hand... Frank comes up to me, gives me a quick embrace-

Lawrence claps me on the shoulder, smiling affectionately...

Teller approaches, I smile and take his offered hand...

(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)

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Teller turns to Kitty, offering the same smile and handshake...

Kitty STARES Teller down, letting his hand hang in the air like a WILTING PLANT... and we-

Einstein TURNS to leave. Up the hill, Strauss approaches...

Einstein pauses. I watch raindrops make circles on the surface of the pond

Einstein PALES. TURNS, passing Strauss without a word. The sound of FEET STAMPING...

CLOSE IN ON: my staring eyes as I visualize THE EXPANDING NUCLEAR ARSENALS OF THE WORLD... THE FEET, FASTER AND FASTER-

When I can take it no longer, I JAM my eyes CLOSED and we-

CUT TO BLACK.

CREDITS.

END.