Idris Elba’s President Responds to Nuclear Attack
El-Balad’s latest review focuses on the film *A House Of Dynamite*, a gripping portrayal of a nuclear attack scenario faced by the United States. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, the film stars Idris Elba as the President who must navigate a critical situation following the launch of an unidentified nuclear missile.
Overview of *A House Of Dynamite*
The movie, streaming on Netflix, offers a chilling look at the U.S. government response to a nuclear threat. It explores themes of decision-making under pressure. Elba’s character is joined by a strong supporting cast, including:
- Rebecca Ferguson as Captain Olivia Walker
- Gabriel Basso as Deputy National Security Advisor
- Jared Harris as the Secretary of Defense
- Tracy Letts as a General from U.S. Strategic Command
Critical Reception
With a rating of 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, critics praise *A House Of Dynamite* for its realistic and tense narrative. The consensus highlights the film’s nail-biting plausibility. It serves as a commentary on contemporary nuclear threats.
Pentagon Response and Technical Critique
Following the film’s release, the Pentagon issued a Missile Defence Memo refuting a claim made in the film. It stated that the U.S. missile interception technology has maintained a 100% accuracy rate in testing for over ten years. This contrasts with the film’s depiction of a 61% interception rate.
Plot Structure and Ending
The narrative unfolds in three chapters, providing unique perspectives on the missile launch and government responses. In the final chapter, titled “A House Filled With Dynamite,” the President learns of the crisis during a high school basketball speech.
As attempts to intercept the missile fail, he faces crucial choices about potential retaliation. His advisors present contrasting viewpoints. The Deputy National Security Advisor advocates for restraint, believing Russia is not culpable, while the General argues that non-retaliation equates to weakness.
Ultimately, the film concludes with a cliffhanger. As the President weighs his options, the screen cuts to black. This ending invites contemplation rather than resolution, fostering discussion about nuclear proliferation and its implications.
The Conversation It Sparks
Screenwriter Noah Oppenheim emphasizes that the film’s ending is intentionally ambiguous. It avoids providing a simple resolution, encouraging audiences to engage in critical discourse. He highlights the broader reality of living in a world with numerous nuclear weapons, many on a “hair trigger.”
Oppenheim’s aim is to provoke reflection on global security issues rather than delivering a tidy conclusion. The film serves as a catalyst for vital conversations about the dangers and responsibilities of nuclear arms. Through *A House Of Dynamite*, audiences are urged to reflect on the world they inhabit amid constant threats.
