Today, Marie Curie is a celebrated figure in science and responsible for our understanding of radiation. However, at once time she was a struggling female Polish scientist working to be taken seriously in a field that was intentionally combative towards women. The new film Radioactive explores the life of Marie Curie, showing her struggles, her marriage to Pierre Curie, and her discoveries which radically changed science.
Radioactive does not do what many films about female figures does; it does not attempt to make Marie Curie super likable. It shows her presumptive, combative, and sometimes pig-headed, but it also shows here sheer determination and force of will. Rosamund Pike does an incredible job as Marie, showing a strong woman who at the same time also shows her frustrations and anxiety. Sam Riley as Pierre Curie is adorable, and Pike and Riley play off each other brilliantly.
There are several times where the movie leaves your heart in your throat, especially as Curie’s life was not all brilliant discoveries; she did go through some pretty serious personal tragedies. For fans of a good drama, or fans of women in science, Radioactive is a must watch.
Radioactive is available to watch on Amazon Prime July 24, 2020.
