Robert Downey Jr. has praised Cillian Murphy for his portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer in «Oppenheimer.» On the other hand, Downey plays Atomic Energy Commission chairman Lewis Strauss in the movie.
He praised the Irish actor's commitment, emphasizing that he had never seen such a profound sacrifice by a lead actor in his career in an interview with People Magazine. According to Downey, Murphy was fully aware of the demanding nature of the role when Christopher Nolan approached him, but he approached it with humility and the necessary resolve to tackle, such a challenging character. He says, “I have never witnessed a greater sacrifice by a lead actor in my career.
He knew it was going to be a behemoth ask when Chris called him. But I think he also had the humility that is required to survive playing a role like this,” to the publication. Florence Pugh, who plays psychologist Jean Talbot also spoke highly of working with Murphy.
She described him as an exceptional actor she had long desired to collaborate with. She says, “He is an actor that I have been watching for quite some time and have been desperate to work with for ages. You’d have to be mad to say no.
It was truly one of the best experiences that I’ve had.” Nolan himself revealed that he had envisioned Murphy as the perfect choice for the role right from the start. Upon seeing a photograph of Oppenheimer in the book «American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer,» Nolan was convinced that Murphy possessed the captivating gaze needed for the role.
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