Dr. Strangelove

Genre: Comedy, Satire
Rating: PG (originally "A", children must be accompanied by an Adult)
Warning: Nuclear War References, Nazi references

This was not the film I was expecting at all. Major pop culture references are simply fleeting moments that aren't dwelled on. The titular Dr. Strangelove is not the central character and doesn't appear for much of the film. The humour is understated and knowing; this is less of a laugh out loud comedy and more of a subtle satire. 

Dr. Strangelove (or: How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Bomb) came out in 1964; the age is notable in the black and white footage and the original "A" rating. Luckily, as the topic of nuclear war was sensitive in the US at the time, it is treated with care and criticised rather than mocked. For those in areas where nuclear issues are closer to home, this is no doubt appreciated.

The intelligence of this film and the way genuinely funny moments are treated as non-events by characters is what makes this such an outstanding film. In between amusement, I found myself pondering the serious possibilities the film presents. Could one person cause a war like that? What would happen if nuclear bombs were used again, now so many countries have them? How safe are the safety measures? The opening ensures us what follows is impossible, but it's certainly a scary 'what if'.

For a Kubrick film, it doesn't have his signifying absurdity and the plot is easy to follow. He is a master directer and the use of lighting, shapes and angles is masterful. The dramatic light in the war room and the large, round table add to the drama that unfolds there. The bright naturalistic light in other scenes contrasts with the utter darkness of the situation.

Of course, you may just be looking for the classic with the iconic bomb-riding rather than a clever piece of historical satire. Yes, someone says "You can't fight in here, this is the war room!"; yes, Dr. Strangelove fights with his arm as it moves on it's own; yes, the cowboy-hat wearing fighter plane Major goes down with the bomb. You'll see those and more outstanding iconic moments when you watch this iconic film. If you haven't seen it, you can tick it off of your to-watch list.