Noah Oppenheim

Screenwriter Noah Oppenheim, known for "A House of Dynamite," and Tom Nichols, a national-security expert, dive into the nail-biting reality of nuclear command decisions. They discuss the terrifying 18-minute time frame for U.S. presidents in crises, emphasizing human fallibility amid rehearsed procedures. Nichols warns of irrational leaders exacerbating risks, while Oppenheim highlights the film's portrayal of rational decision-makers to showcase systemic flaws. They also touch on the current state of nuclear proliferation and the need for public engagement to reduce the threat.

Noah Oppenheim, a television producer and former NBC News president, joins the conversation to discuss his film, A House of Dynamite, which tackles the harrowing theme of a nuclear strike on America. He delves into the Pentagon's pushback over the film's depiction and highlights the importance of bringing nuclear risk back into public discourse. The discussion also touches on the impact of recent crises on public interest in catastrophic narratives and how films can spark ideologically diverse conversations on nuclear policy.

Kathryn Bigelow, an Academy Award-winning director known for intense thrillers, joins Noah Oppenheim, a screenwriter and former NBC News president. They explore Bigelow’s lifelong fascination with nuclear threats, sparked by her childhood experiences with ‘duck and cover.’ The duo discusses the alarming normalization of nuclear dangers and how their film, A House of Dynamite, aims to mix realism with storytelling. They analyze the Pentagon's pushback on their film’s accuracy and reflect on rising concerns regarding potential U.S. nuclear testing and the overarching question of how to make the world safer.

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.

Terry Stiasny, a political journalist and author, shares insights on Ukraine's revised peace plan to present to the U.S., exploring potential receptions from Trump and Putin. Simon Brook, a seasoned journalist, discusses the motivations behind the 28-point plan and the complexities facing European countries if the U.S. withdraws. In a riveting interview, Noah Oppenheim, screenwriter of A House of Dynamite, reveals the challenging research on nuclear decision-making, cautioning against complacency in public discussions about nuclear threats.