Watch Hollywood in the Atomic Age

Hollywood in the Atomic Age is a fascinating documentary film that takes a deep dive into Hollywood's response and the cultural changes that took place in America following the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Starring noted collector and historian of science fiction memorabilia, Bob Burns, Hollywood in the Atomic Age showcases the various ways in which Hollywood tried to make sense of the atomic age. The film recounts the horror and destruction wrought by the atomic bomb and its aftermath, and its impact on the American psyche. It features interviews with numerous Hollywood stars, critics, and historians, some of whom were directly impacted by the bombing in one way or another.

The documentary begins with an overview of the atomic bomb's development and the extent of the devastation that ensued from its use in Japan in 1945. The explosion forced the world to come to terms with a new kind of threat that would shape the geopolitical landscape and culture of the 20th century. The documentary then explores Hollywood's response to this new threat.

The film delves into various themes related to the atomic age, such as science fiction, horror, and apocalypticism, which became popular genres in Hollywood following the bombings. The documentary covers movies like The Day the Earth Stood Still, Them, and The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, which emerged as some of the most recognizable and archetypal cinematic portrayals of anxieties surrounding the atomic age.

Hollywood in the Atomic Age also addresses the changing landscape of American morality and the rise of the Cold War following World War II. The film touches on the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and the paranoia that resulted from the fear of communism, which was spreading rapidly during the atomic age. The documentary takes a closer look at the impact of the HUAC on the entertainment industry, and how it had repercussions long after the atomic age had ended.

The documentary is narrated by a noted film historian, Ron Adams, who guides audiences through the various changes that took place in Hollywood during this tumultuous period. Mr. Adams' knowledge provides an excellent backdrop for the archival footage and interviews with people who lived through this time.

One of the most compelling aspects of Hollywood in the Atomic Age is its focus on Bob Burns' collection of memorabilia. Burns’ colossal collection of sci-fi and horror memorabilia spans decades and includes an original Godzilla suit and models of some of the most famous movie monsters, including the creatures from Alien and Predator. His collection serves as a reminder of Hollywood's enduring fascination with the atomic age and the fears it unleashed. It also highlights how Hollywood is a vital repository of American culture, reflecting changing cultural attitudes, and our ongoing dialogue with innovation.

Although Hollywood in the Atomic Age covers a lot of ground, both historical and cultural, it never loses its focus. The film ties back to the stories of the people who were part and parcel of this transformative era while providing a critical analysis of the art that reflected these seismic shifts of history. The documentary's director, Terry Castle, has crafted a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating narrative that draws you in and provokes thought long after the credits roll.

Overall, Hollywood in the Atomic Age is a must-watch for anyone interested in film history, the atomic age, or how culture adapts to changing times. While the documentary is full of fascinating stories, it never shies away from the harsh realities of the era. Instead, it leans into them, revealing how they influenced the art we still consume today. By doing so, it helps to give viewers a new appreciation for the complexities and nuances of what it means when the world changes in fundamental ways.

Hollywood in the Atomic Age is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 57 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.