Kathryn Bigelow Addresses Pentagon Critique of A House of Dynamite

Kathryn Bigelow, acclaimed filmmaker, has expressed her excitement about the discussions sparked by her latest film, *A House of Dynamite*. This response comes amidst a report from Bloomberg indicating that the Pentagon issued an internal memo criticizing the film’s portrayal of the United States’ nuclear missile defense system. Bigelow and screenwriter Noah Oppenheim based their depiction on extensive research and expert interviews, highlighting that the current U.S. system can only stop approximately 50% of incoming nuclear threats, referred to in the film as “a coin toss.”

Pentagon’s Response and Critique

The Pentagon has countered the film’s narrative, asserting that its missile defense systems have maintained a 100% accuracy rate in testing for over a decade. This claim has been met with skepticism from experts, including Tom Nichols from *The Atlantic*, who argues against the Pentagon’s assertions. U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey has publicly commended the film for its focus on nuclear weapons and its realistic portrayal of national defense issues.

Film’s Impact and Reception

*A House of Dynamite* has resonated with audiences, becoming Netflix’s top film shortly after its release, garnering over 22.1 million views within the first three days. Bigelow and Oppenheim welcome this dialogue, viewing the film as a catalyst for essential discussions on nuclear weapons policy.

Conversations Around Nuclear Weapons

• Current Risk: The film suggests that the U.S. nuclear defense system is significantly flawed.
• Expert Validation: Notable experts and policymakers support the film’s depiction of missile defense capabilities.
• Global Reach: Netflix’s platform has broadened the conversation about nuclear issues internationally.

Bigelow emphasizes the importance of discussing the risks posed by nuclear weapons. She believes the film addresses a critical topic long overshadowed by silence. As Bigelow notes, the world is surrounded by over 12,000 nuclear weapons, creating a precarious environment, hence the title *A House of Dynamite*.

Aiming for Authenticity

In response to the Pentagon’s memo, Bigelow affirmed the necessity of independent filmmaking. She stated that consulting various experts provided a more accurate portrayal of the subject matter. Oppenheim echoed her sentiment, noting that independent voices can offer a clearer perspective than those directly linked to governmental agendas.

Drawing from Past Experiences

Reflecting on her previous work, especially *Zero Dark Thirty*, Bigelow acknowledges the lessons learned from public reactions. The filmmakers aimed to balance realism and engaging storytelling, inviting audiences to confront unsettling truths about nuclear armament. Audiences have expressed appreciation for the film’s tension and its engagement with pressing policy debates.

The conclusion of *A House of Dynamite* intentionally leaves viewers questioning and analyzing, encouraging reflection on the broader implications of nuclear security and policy discussions. Bigelow and Oppenheim celebrate this opportunity for deeper conversations and hope for lasting impact as negotiations concerning nuclear treaties approach in February.