Watch The Atomic Kid

The Atomic Kid is a comedic science-fiction film released in 1954, directed by Leslie H. Martinson and starring a young Mickey Rooney as a hapless and unwitting victim of radiation poisoning. The film opens with an atomic bomb test in the Nevada desert, during which truck driver Blix Waterberry (Rooney) accidentally drives onto the testing site and is exposed to the blast.

As a result of his exposure, Blix becomes a walking Geiger counter, emitting radiation wherever he goes and becoming a prime target for Soviet spies who believe he holds valuable military secrets. The film follows Blix as he tries to adjust to his new condition while avoiding capture by the spies, who are determined to do whatever it takes to get their hands on him.

Along the way, Blix is aided by a cast of quirky characters, including his best friend Joseph (Robert Strauss), a fellow truck driver who is both loyal and bumbling; and Angela (Elaine Devry), a beautiful scientist who is fascinated by Blix's condition and is determined to help him find a cure.

Despite its heavy subject matter, The Atomic Kid is a lighthearted romp that makes light of the dangers of nuclear radiation and the Cold War. With its zany plot, slapstick humor, and charming performances by Rooney and the supporting cast, the film is an enjoyable and sometimes surreal tribute to the golden age of science fiction.

One of the key themes of the film is the fear and uncertainty surrounding nuclear power and the atomic bomb, which had only recently been developed at the time of the film's release. Characters throughout the film express their concern about the dangers of radiation, with some even going so far as to suggest that Blix's condition is a punishment from God for meddling with forces he should not have.

At the same time, the film also acknowledges the allure of nuclear power and the potential benefits it could bring. Angela, the beautiful scientist, is obsessed with unlocking the secrets of atomic energy and believes that Blix's condition could lead to a breakthrough in nuclear medicine. Meanwhile, the Soviet spies are willing to go to great lengths to learn more about American nuclear weapons and technology in order to gain an edge in the Cold War.

Despite its somewhat heavy subject matter, The Atomic Kid is ultimately a comedic romp that pokes fun at the absurdity of the Cold War and the dangers of nuclear power. With its memorable performances and zany plot, it remains a classic of the science fiction genre and a testament to the optimism and humor of Hollywood's golden age.

The Atomic Kid is a 1954 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.