Could nuclear energy be the solution to the climate crisis? ATOMIC HOPE,
which is directed by the award-winning filmmaker Frankie Fenton (It’s Not
Yet Dark) and produced by Kathryn Kennedy for Kennedy Films (My Name is
Emily, It’s Not Yet Dark), explores this very question. The film is an
observational documentary which follows a tiny group of highly unpopular
“pro-nuclear” activists who controversially believe we now need to urgently
re-address our feelings on nuclear power if we are to have any hope of
decarbonizing our energy systems before the effects of catastrophic climate
change wreak havoc. These advocates have been filmed internationally over a
10-year period, facing clashes and opposition at every juncture. A sordid
history of nuclear meltdowns, radiation fears and nuclear waste are just
some of the very serious issues traditional environmentalists have with
this contentious technology. However, in the face of this pushback and
conflict, they argue that, “science and data is all we have”. Their
alarming call to action, while in tandem with Greta’s global environmental
demand for decarbonization, is drowned out in the streets. But for better
or worse?
