Netflix's 'A House of Dynamite' Sparks Nuclear War Debate

Kathryn Bigelow's 2025 film "A House of Dynamite" has sparked renewed interest in nuclear war narratives by depicting a White House response to an imminent ballistic missile strike on a U.S. city, exploring the fraught decision-making process during a nuclear crisis. Experts praise the film for its realistic portrayal of nuclear command, control, and technology, including authentic representations of the Nuclear Handbook and presidential bunkers, though it takes some dramatic liberties and does not fully satisfy viewers seeking deeper character development. The movie conveys a critical message: nuclear officials cannot have perfect knowledge or make flawless decisions, underscoring the importance of preventing nuclear use altogether. Discussions around the film highlight concerns about current nuclear preparedness and the complexities of the U.S. nuclear posture under the Trump administration. While the film effectively captures the tension and procedural challenges in nuclear crisis management, some critics note its narrow focus on a twenty-minute window limits broader narrative depth. Overall, "A House of Dynamite" combines technical accuracy with dramatic storytelling to engage audiences on the realities and risks of nuclear conflict.