Physics can be complex, ranging from pure theory to extensive practical applications. It has contributed to many historical events, inspired thrilling tales, and laid the groundwork for modern technology. These aspects shine through in our movie and series recommendations.
Movies
Red Joan (2018)
Set in London in 2000, this movie follows retired scientist Joan Stanley, who is accused of high treason. Through flashbacks, Joan recounts her story, focusing on her physics studies at Cambridge and her secret research on nuclear fission as part of Professor Max Davis’s team.
Streaming on: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
Oppenheimer (2023)
This movie also delves into nuclear fission and the development of the atomic bomb, focusing on the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the “Father of the Atomic Bomb,” and the pivotal Manhattan Project in the United States.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies and TV
Hawking (2013)
A documentary about Stephen Hawking, one of the most influential physicists of our time, featuring insights from the man himself, his friends, and his family. It offers a unique perspective on his personal life and groundbreaking contributions to quantum physics.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
The Theory of Everything (2014)
Based on Jane Hawking’s memoirs, this biographical movie highlights the extraordinary career of Stephen Hawking and his relationship with his wife, emphasizing the challenges they faced together.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
Radioactive (2020)
This biographical movie explores the life of Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and her pioneering research on radioactivity, including the discovery of radium and polonium.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
The Current War (2017)
The movie portrays the rivalry between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse over the establishment of the first American power grid, showcasing Edison’s contributions to electrical lighting and energy.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
Hidden Figures (2017)
This inspiring movie sheds light on the overlooked contributions of three African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played crucial roles in NASA’s Mercury and Apollo missions during the space race.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+
Series
The Big Bang Theory (2007–2019)
This sitcom follows four nerdy friends—Sheldon, Leonard, Howard, and Raj—whose lives revolve around science and comics. Over 12 seasons, the series humorously explores their relationships, quirks, and shared love for physics.
Streaming on: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
Young Sheldon (2018–present)
A spin-off prequel to The Big Bang Theory, this series chronicles the early life of Sheldon Cooper, a child prodigy who skips grades to study physics. Currently, the show spans six seasons.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and TV
Einstein: The Life of a Genius (1984)
This four-part miniseries offers a comprehensive look at Albert Einstein’s life, from his childhood to his exile in the United States. It covers his groundbreaking theory of relativity and his contributions to the development of the atomic bomb.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
