Kathryn Bigelow's 'A House of Dynamite' Depicts Nuclear Crisis Response Ahead of Netflix Release

Kathryn Bigelow's new film "A House of Dynamite" explores the harrowing scenario of a nuclear missile headed toward Chicago, focusing on the U.S. government's urgent response within an 18-minute window. The movie, starring Idris Elba as the president and Rebecca Ferguson as a senior officer, is noted for its realistic portrayal of nuclear crisis management, developed with input from military officials and experts. Critics have praised the film as a tense, politically urgent work that exposes the terrifying reality rather than exploiting fear, while also drawing some criticism for its repetitive narrative structure and an ambiguous ending. Experts from organizations like The Union of Concerned Scientists highlight the film's authenticity, emphasizing the immense pressure on decision-makers in such a crisis and the crucial role of the president's judgment. Bigelow's film aims to spark conversations about nuclear weapons and the precariousness of global security, underscoring the thin line between control and chaos in national defense. "A House of Dynamite" premiered at Venice Film Festival and is available on Netflix from October 24, 2025.