by Ann Alessandra Cuadros Gutierrez*
Last August marked the 78th anniversary of the devastating disaster in the United States. Atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, approximately 214,000 people died. These events left an indelible mark on history, but unfortunately can still be trivialized in pop culture. By following a few simple guidelines, filmmakers, studio promotions, and fans alike can respect the seriousness of nuclear weapons without compromising the fun and creative freedom inherent in cultural spaces. Masu.
That respect didn’t always happen this summer. Just 5 days after the events of ’78th The anniversary of the first nuclear weapon test and two weeks before the anniversary of the first use of a nuclear weapon. two heights is expected The movie will be shown in theaters: “Barbie” A comedy based on the famous Mattel dolls, and “Oppenheimer”, A biographical film about the scientist known as the “father of the atomic bomb.” Despite having different plots, both films have the same release date, making them linked in terms of promotion and culture, with many movie fans using the hashtag #Barbenheimer. Showcase We saw both movies in one day and often watched them in costume. However, unofficial promotions for these films often included inappropriate images and comments, including images of lead actor Killian. murphy and Margot Robbie, engulfed in apocalyptic flames. This naturally caused controversy and anxiety, especially among descendants of the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombs.
This kind of insensitivity on nuclear issues is not new. After the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, similar incidents occurred, including at the Burbank brothel in Los Angeles. entertainment Recruitment as “Atom Bomb Dancers”” In 1999, the National Museum of Atomic Science and History published “Hiroshima earrings” Something in the shape of a nuclear bomb. and 2019, Manhattan Project beer company launched “Bikini Atoll Beer” hint to of Nuclear test created some areas marshall islands I can’t live there, tell the critics Who accused it of being insensitive? that company He sought to raise awareness of nuclear weapons in the United States.
This should not be generalized to the conclusion that the role of popular culture regarding nuclear consciousness is always, or should be, negative. on the contrary, only for Because common sense prevails, pop culture can play an active role in shedding light on sensitive issues such as nuclear weapons and the risks and consequences of their use. To that end, those interested in working on this topic in the future should highlight the following reservations in their work:
- balance: Approaches to sensitive topics should be valued and not simply labeled as taboo. You can approach any topic respectfully, even if it involves nuclear issues.
- Consciousness: We must recognize that the possibility of a new nuclear arms race is understandably disturbing and does not glorify or imply the usefulness of nuclear weapons.
- Expertise: Please help if you want to raise awareness Expert Actively involve the organization. To ensure responsible content production and a consistent and authentic message, filmmakers should be provided with global standards of dissemination, developed collaboratively by experts, organizations and international bodies. By consulting renowned experts, filmmakers and other creators can help with promotion. Accurate Depict sensitive issues and foster a more informed public debate.
When done properly, pop culture can inform the masses. important issues, but it will be important that entertainment does not drive policy. Some examples of successful application of this principle can be reproduced.
- Documentaries and educational films: Instead of using sensationalism as a marketing strategy, documentaries and educational films can accurately and movingly explain the history of nuclear weapons and their devastating effects, and highlight the importance of nuclear disarmament. An easy-to-understand example isBarefoot Gen” A children’s film directed by Masaki Mori that depicts the tragic consequences of the use of nuclear weapons in Hiroshima through the eyes of a child.
- Arms control and non-proliferation organizations: Organizations dedicated to nuclear disarmament can partner with the entertainment industry to provide resources. Accurate information and access to experts in the field. They can help with awareness and fundraising efforts, such as sharing testimonies about the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki around the world.
- Social media and viral campaigns: Social media is a powerful tool for spreading your message and raising awareness. Viral campaigns using memes, short videos, or challenges can be an effective way to reach young audiences and generate conversation about the dangers of nuclear weapons. One of the most commonly used is #CranesforFuture motion Every year from August 6th to 9th, people, including celebrities, share images of origami cranes in honor of the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
- Media consumers: Viewers and media consumers also have an important job to do by supporting and promoting content that deals with this issue responsibly, while criticizing and boycotting insensitive or irresponsible productions to ensure these tactics are not repeated. I owe it.
Popular culture should avoid approaching nuclear issues in an idealistic and simplistic manner and presenting the abolition of nuclear weapons as simple. objective to be achieved. It is therefore essential to recognize the challenges inherent in disarmament and take a pragmatic approach to them. difficult problem.
- Highlighting current risks: If we want to talk about nuclear disarmament and a world without nuclear weapons, it is essential to be realistic about current nuclear risks, including the possibility of nuclear conflict, the threat of use of nuclear weapons, and theft of nuclear material.
- References to history: It is important to mention historical examples where disarmament and nuclear non-compliance became critical flashpoints. Nuclear proliferation was a key issue, and how nonproliferation efforts could alleviate concerns of nuclear war, such as the Cold War and arms control treaties.
It’s important to remember that addressing this issue is not the sole responsibility of any particular company. Everyone has a role to play, including those in the entertainment industry. The responsibility to use pop culture appropriately does not rest solely on producers.of common man There is also an obligation to be critical; participate In the discussion of how to deal with these issues. We all have a responsibility to take difficult steps to minimize the dangers of nuclear weapons.
*Editor’s note: Currently writing the Center’s new weapons management series, “Next Up.” Anne Alessandra Cuadros Gutierrez is an experienced lawyer specializing in international and humanitarian law. She is currently an intern at the Organization of American States (OAS)’s Inter-American Commission on Counter-Terrorism and is being featured as one of the United Nations Youth Disarmament Advocates in 2024.