Radioactive

Radioactive, a biographical drama film directed by Marjane Satrapi, delves into the life of Marie Curie, a Polish-born scientist, and her groundbreaking discovery of radium. The film begins in 1885 in Warsaw, Poland, where we find a young Marie Skłodowska, a determined and fiercely intelligent woman, determined to pursue higher education despite the societal norms that prohibit women from doing so. Marie meets her future husband, Pierre Curie, a French physicist who is equally passionate about science. The two eventually get married and move to Paris, where they begin working on a project that will change the course of history. Their research focuses on ionizing radiation and the unique properties of radioactive elements. As Marie and Pierre continue their work, their marriage is put to the test due to Marie's increasing dedication to her research. Pierre, who is more laid-back and carefree, struggles to cope with Marie's all-consuming passion for science. The tension between the couple is palpable, but their love for each other remains strong. Marie's work gains international recognition, and she becomes the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize, along with Pierre, in 1903. The two are awarded the prize for their pioneering work on radioactivity, which leads to a groundbreaking discovery of radioactive elements, including radium. The discovery of radium holds immense promise and potential, but it also poses significant risks to those handling the element. Marie and Pierre are aware of the dangers associated with radium, but their drive for scientific knowledge pushes them to continue their research, even at the risk of their own lives. The film takes a dramatic turn when Pierre dies in 1906, tragically killed in a street accident while walking home from a séance. The loss of her husband is devastating for Marie, and she remains heartbroken for many years. Despite her grief, Marie continues her work, becoming the first woman to be appointed as a professor at the University of Paris in 1910. The story of Marie Curie's life is inextricably linked to the discovery of radium, an element that has a profound and long-lasting impact on society. The film highlights the importance of Marie's discovery, which revolutionizes the field of medicine, and has significant implications for the development of cancer treatment and nuclear energy. As the 20th century unfolds, the Curies' discovery of radium sets in motion a seismic chain of events that change the world forever. Radiologists use radium to develop medical treatments, such as radiation therapy, which gives new hope to cancer patients. However, the use of radium also poses significant risks to those handling the element, leading to radiation poisoning and death. The film also delves into the personal life of Marie Curie, who becomes a global celebrity and an icon for women everywhere. Despite her status as a renowned scientist, Marie struggles with the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field. The Curies' daughter, Irène, grows up to be a brilliant scientist in her own right, mirroring her mother's passion and dedication to science. The film concludes with an epic scene of Marie Curie speaking at the Paris Opera House in 1927, reflecting on her life's work and the profound impact her discovery has had on the world. As the curtain closes, we see a montage of images from Marie's life, highlighting her love for Pierre, her struggles as a woman in science, and the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind. Throughout the film, Satrapi's direction is characterized by a beautiful blend of poetry and realism. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the beauty and elegance of the early 20th century, while the performances from the lead actors, Rosamund Pike and Anya Taylor-Joy, are outstanding. The score, composed by Matt Lasky and Benjamin Wallfisch, perfectly complements the tone and mood of the film. Overall, Radioactive is a powerful and poignant biographical drama that tells the story of Marie Curie's remarkable life and her groundbreaking discovery of radium. The film is a tribute to a woman who defied societal norms and made a lasting impact on the world.