Atomic: Living in Dread and Promise

Overview

Mark Cousins crafts a hauntingly poetic reflection on the nuclear era, blending archival footage with an evocative score by Mogwai. The film captures striking moments of protest, Cold War tensions, and the tragedies of Chernobyl and Fukushima, while simultaneously revealing the breathtaking aspects of atomic science. It emphasizes how nuclear technology, despite its dark history, has also brought advancements like x-rays and MRI scans that enhance human well-being. The documentary navigates the paradox of the nuclear age, portraying it as both a source of dread and a realm of unexpected beauty.