The Monomyth’s Resurgence in Cinema: Exploring Oppenheimer’s Heroic Journey
The summer of 2023 experienced a remarkable resurgence in cinema box office revenue, following years of declining returns attributed to COVID-related theatre closures and the increasing popularity of streaming platforms. The success of films like “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer’’ served as significant catalysts for revitalising the cinema industry. In this article, I argue that the recent resurgence in box office returns can be attributed to filmmakers like Greta Gerwig and Christopher Nolan, who prioritise delivering captivating cinematic experiences while re-embracing the concept of “The Hero’s Journey,” a narrative structure identified by Joseph Campbell as the Monomyth.
Modern cinema has been defined by an emphasis on identity, diversity and subverting narratives which left many audiences feeling alienated and disappointed.
Oppenheimer takes place over multiple timelines but still offers a profound sense of coherence, meaning, and purpose, providing audiences with a deep sense of connection and belonging. This achievement is facilitated by the incorporation of elements from the Monomyth into the storytelling fabric of the film.
Below I will attempt to summarise Oppenheimer’s journey with the 17 stages of the Monomyth.
The Call to Adventure:
Oppenheimer’s journey begins in 1926 when he grapples with anxiety and homesickness while studying physics at Cambridge. His decision to pursue theoretical physics at the University of Göttingen marks the start of his transformative journey
Refusal of the Call:
Oppenheimer comes close to rejecting the call by entertaining the idea of an alternative path, contemplating poisoning his lecturer and diverging from his intended future trajectory.
Supernatural Aid:
Oppenheimer listens attentively to Niels Bohr, who serves as a catalyst, urging him to embark on a journey of further learning and exploration in Europe.
Crossing the Threshold:
While teaching at Berkeley, Oppenheimer crosses the threshold of his journey through two significant events: the publication of his groundbreaking paper on black holes, which brings him considerable recognition, and the outbreak of the Second World War, signalling the commencement of his hero’s journey.
The Belly of the Whale:
This marks the moment when Oppenheimer learns about the program and is prepared to abandon his child, his previous leftist beliefs and his role as a physicist, undergoing a transformation into a organiser and a director of the Manhattan Project.
The Road of Trials:
Throughout his journey, Oppenheimer faces numerous challenges and obstacles, including personal betrayals, political pressures, and ethical dilemmas, which test his resolve and character.
Meeting with the Goddess:
Oppenheimer falls in love with Katherine “Kitty” Puening, sharing in a love that transcends boundaries. Kitty’s unwavering strength, persistence, forgiveness and affection provide Oppenheimer with the fortitude to persevere even in moments of doubt.
Woman as Temptress:
Oppenheimer’s relationships with Jean Tatlock and later with Ruth Tolman introduce tragedy, moral dilemmas and emotional turmoil into his life.
Atonement with the Father:
Oppenheimer seeks reconciliation with authority figures such as Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr, grappling with feelings of fear and responsibility, he wrestles with a profound sense of apprehension and accountability for unleashing the power capable of annihilating civilizations.
Apotheosis:
This is the most important phase in Oppenheimer’s journey, as he and General Groves enlist the aid of fellow scientists to join the project and set up the operations base in Los Alamos. Surrounding himself with geniuses working on the biggest challenges elevates Oppenheimer’s mind to its zenith.
The Ultimate Boon:
Despite facing many setbacks and challenges, Oppenheimer ultimately achieves his aim of creating an atomic bomb with the Trinity test. His determination and resilience enables him to overcome obstacles and achieve a historical feat.
Refusal of the Return:
Oppenheimer struggles to come to terms with a return to academia after the highs of the Manhattan project. He initially rebuffs Lewis Strauss’ offers to teach at Princeton, even though it was a hugely attractive proposition.
The Magic Flight:
Oppenheimer attempts to control atomic bomb production by advocating for restrictions on the spread of nuclear weapons worldwide. He emphasises restraint through international agreements and treaties aimed at limiting the proliferation of atomic weapons.
Rescue from Without:
After his security clearance is revoked Oppenheimer receives support and validation from allies such as Groves, Isador Rabi and to a lesser extent Edward Teller. Although ultimately unsuccessful in regaining his security clearance. It is Dr David Hill who unexpectedly endorses Oppenheimer whilst denouncing his tormentor Lewis Strauss at the Senate hearing in 1959.
The Crossing of the Return Threshold:
Oppenheimer’s return to society is marked by his political rehabilitation and recognition for his contributions to science, receiving the Enrico Fermi award from President Lyndon Johnson in 1963.
Master of Two Worlds:
Oppenheimer confronts the dark side of his work as he grapples with guilt and the moral implications of his involvement in their creation. But ultimately finds balance through his advocacy for peace and nuclear disarmament, embracing his role as a steward of humanity’s future.
Freedom to Live:
After enduring trials and challenges throughout his quest, Oppenheimer ultimately achieves a sense of enlightenment and understanding, gaining insight into the true nature of his work and its impact on humanity. Oppenheimer’s journey culminates in a symbolic escape from the constraints of his past and the burdens of his guilt, as he seeks to transcend the limitations of his role in history.
Through Oppenheimer’s narrative, Christopher Nolan crafts a thought-provoking exploration of human ambition, moral responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge, underscoring the enduring relevance and power of the Monomyth in modern cinema.
