Post Reports Kathryn Bigelow on ‘A House of Dynamite’ and the nuclear ‘elephant in the room’
Nov 11, 2025
Acclaimed director Kathryn Bigelow, known for her Oscar-winning films, discusses her latest project, A House of Dynamite, which delves into the threat of nuclear war. She shares her childhood fears of atomic bombs and her drive to explore decisions made in moments of crisis. Co-creator Noah Oppenheim contributes his journalistic background to the screenplay, emphasizing the normalization of nuclear risk. They address public reactions, recent news of potential nuclear testing, and the film’s urgent call for conversation around denuclearization and safer policies.
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Nuclear Threat Has Become Normalized
- Kathryn Bigelow says nuclear weapons have become normalized and are the "elephant in the room."
- She warns the global count and number of nuclear countries make the situation terrifying and heart-stopping.
Childhood 'Duck And Cover' Memory
- Kathryn Bigelow recounts growing up in the "duck and cover" era and hiding under desks for atomic blasts.
- That childhood experience kept nuclear catastrophe top of mind throughout her career.
Use Reporting To Build Authentic Scenes
- Noah Oppenheim describes using a journalistic method: interview real people who held the jobs depicted.
- He advises to keep asking "Who else should we talk to?" to deepen accuracy and perspective.