The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) is using the buzz around Christopher Nolan’s movie “Oppenheimer” to raise awareness about the nuclear threat.
To coincide with the Academy Awards this Sunday, NTI will kick off their “Make Nukes History” campaign in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about the civilization-ending risks posed by today’s nuclear arsenals. Utilizing billboards, a major art installation, an open letter from top artists published in the Los Angeles Times, social media videos, and more.
Actors including “Oppenheimer” cast members Matthew Modine and Tony Goldwyn, as well as Michael Douglas, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Viggo Mortensen, Emma Thompson, and Rosanna Arquette joined J. Robert Oppenheimer’s grandson and activist Charles Oppenheimer to sign a letter in partnership with NTI.
"We want to remind everyone that although Oppenheimer is a part of history, nuclear weapons are still a present threat," the group states in their letter. "In order to safeguard our families, communities, and the world, it is crucial that global leaders take action to eliminate nuclear weapons and create a better future."
The "Make Nukes History" campaign features billboards and street posters with messages like "Oppenheimer Started It, We Can End It" and "13 Oppenheimer Nominations; 13,000 Nuclear Weapons."
"NTI Co-Chair and CEO, Ernest J. Moniz, highlighted Robert Oppenheimer's warning about the dangers of creating stronger weapons. He accurately predicted the emergence of risky arms races. Moniz emphasized the importance of political will in addressing the significant geopolitical challenges we face. He stressed that it is crucial for people to demand action to prevent further escalation."
Cillian Murphy (as J. Robert Oppenheimer) and writer, director, and producer Christopher Nolan on the set of "Oppenheimer."
Cillian Murphy (as J. Robert Oppenheimer) and writer, director, and producer Christopher Nolan on the set of "Oppenheimer."
Melinda Sue Gordon/Universal Pictures
"Oppenheimer" is having a successful awards season and is considered the top contender for the best picture at the Oscars. The movie follows the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer and his team of scientists who created the atomic bomb.
For the complete list of signatories, you can visit www.makenukeshistory.org/open-letter.