Paul Schrader Calls ‘Oppenheimer’ The “Best, Most Important Film Of This Century”

There have already been a lot of incredibly positive reactions to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming big-budget drama, “Oppenheimer.” Even though the film is getting rave reviews from some serious critics, perhaps Nolan’s going to listen to Paul Schrader’s opinion a bit more than the casual critic. And according to Schrader, “Oppenheimer” isn’t just good, it’s one of the best films of this century. 

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In a Facebook post (the film legend loves sharing his opinions on films and life, in general, on Zuck’s platform), Paul Schrader raved about Christopher Nolan’s new film, “Oppenheimer.” And even though Schrader can be a bit of a curmudgeon from time to time, it sounds as if the filmmaker is absolutely over the moon with what Nolan has made.

Schrader wrote, “OPPENHEIMER.The best, most important film of this century. If you see one film in cinemas this year it should be Oppenheimer. I’m not a Nolan groupie but this one blows the doors off the hinges.”

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It’s funny that Schrader said he’s not a “Nolan groupie,” as the “Inception” filmmaker has definitely earned his fair share of devoted fans. However, it’s clear from Schrader’s words that he believes “Oppenheimer” is a must-see film. Not only that, it’s the “best, most important film of this century.” Can you think of any higher praise than that?

READ MORE: Paul Schrader Questions The Amount Of Research That Went Into ‘Babylon’: “I Was Scratching My Head”

Does that mean “Oppenheimer” is going to make a billion dollars and sweep the Oscars in 2024? Of course not. But if you’re a film fan who reads reviews and trusts the opinions of folks with deep knowledge of the medium, it’s hard to deny Schrader’s seemingly hyperbolic words. This is a guy who isn’t known for throwing heaps of praise on things he doesn’t believe in. Though he might have controversial opinions, Schrader is nothing if not a straight-shooter.

All that to say, it’s eye-opening to see Paul Schrader rave like this about a movie. So, if you weren’t excited about “Oppenheimer” before, you probably should be now.