Radiation Biopics: 10 Films That Illuminate History

Description: Although not a biopic, this thriller about a nuclear plant malfunction eerily predicted the Three Mile Island accident just weeks after its release, highlighting the potential dangers of nuclear power and radiation exposure.

Fact: The film's release was followed by the real-life Three Mile Island nuclear accident, which eerily mirrored the movie's plot.

Description: A satirical documentary that uses archival footage from the 1940s and 1950s to show how the U.S. government and media portrayed nuclear power and radiation to the public, often with a chillingly naive optimism.

Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in

Description: This film chronicles the Manhattan Project, focusing on the scientists, particularly J. Robert Oppenheimer, who developed the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It's a look at the ethical dilemmas and personal sacrifices involved.

Fact: The film was originally titled "Shadow Makers," but was changed to reflect the code names of the bombs.

Description: While not directly about radiation, this film tells the story of Robert Bilott, a lawyer who uncovers the toxic effects of chemicals used in the production of Teflon, which indirectly relates to environmental contamination and health issues.

Fact: The film was based on a New York Times Magazine article titled "The Lawyer Who Became DuPont's Worst Nightmare."

Description: This documentary explores the legacy of nuclear power in America, focusing on the human stories of those affected by radiation exposure from nuclear testing and accidents.

Fact: The film includes interviews with survivors of the Trinity Test, the first nuclear explosion, and examines the long-term effects on their health.

Description: This HBO miniseries dramatizes the catastrophic 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, focusing on the stories of the brave men and women who fought to contain the fallout. It's a chilling reminder of the human cost of nuclear power gone awry.

Fact: The series was filmed in Lithuania, with the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant standing in for Chernobyl. The show's depiction of the disaster was so accurate that it was used as an educational tool by some universities.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, this TV movie captures the aftermath of a nuclear war, showing the devastating effects of radiation on survivors. It's included for its realistic portrayal of the consequences of nuclear fallout.

Fact: The film was so controversial that President Ronald Reagan watched it and later credited it with influencing his views on nuclear disarmament.

Description: Based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, a worker at a plutonium plant who becomes an advocate for worker safety after discovering evidence of corporate negligence regarding radiation exposure.

Fact: Meryl Streep, who played Silkwood, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance.

Description: This docudrama recounts the events leading up to and following the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, focusing on the lives of several individuals caught in the tragedy. It's a poignant exploration of the human side of nuclear warfare.

Fact: The film was produced by Roger Spottiswoode, who also directed "Tomorrow Never Dies," showcasing his versatility in handling different genres.

Description: This film tells the true story of the "Radium Girls," women who painted watch dials with radium paint in the early 20th century, only to suffer from radiation poisoning. It's a tale of corporate greed and the fight for justice.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America's Shining Women" by Kate Moore.