Oppenheimer

Is the atomic explosion in Nolan’s film Oppenheimer computer-generated?
 
Following is verbatim answer given by David Fiore, Quora, Sept. 9, 2023:

For the scene depicting the atomic detonation during the famous Trinity test in the New Mexico desert in July 1945, Christopher Nolan and his creative team did not rely on CGI [computer generated imagery]. Instead, they recreated a real explosion using gasoline, propane, magnesium, and aluminum powder to enhance the blinding light and initial flash of the explosion.

The explosion was filmed at 48 frames per second using 65mm IMAX cameras and Panavision Panaflex System 65 Studio cameras. Additional detailed shots were captured using 35mm cameras at 50 FPS [frames per second].

All elements were shot in a way that made them appear much larger than they were and then composited together in post-production to create ‘a colossal event made up of many small pieces.’

The final product was assembled by overlaying 100 shots and over 400 practical elements, all crafted by a team of more than 150 artists.

This is one of the reasons why I absolutely admire Nolan and his films ❤️.

The 2023 film is rated 93% on Rotten Tomatoes.