Acclaimed director Christopher Nolan and Irish actor Cillian Murphy have collaborated on six films over 15 years, forging an inspirational actor-director partnership. But beyond respecting Murphy’s immense talents, Nolan also clearly feels great personal affection for his leading man as evidenced by a sweet note he left upon casting him for their latest effort, the 2023 best picture Oscar-nominee Oppenheimer.
When Did Christopher Nolan and Cillian Murphy’s Creative Partnership Begin?
Christopher Nolan first glimpsed Cillian Murphy’s potential in 2005, casting him as villain Scarecrow in Batman Begins, the first film in Nolan’s blockbuster Dark Knight trilogy. Though a supporting role, Murphy made a strong impression, returning for quick cameos in the trilogy’s latter films.
Christopher Nolan left a note on Cillian Murphy's #Oppenheimer script
“Dearest Cillian. Finally, a chance to see you lead… Love, Chris"
(via @60Minutes) pic.twitter.com/zKeGMGx1F5
— Culture Crave 🍿 (@CultureCrave) February 19, 2024
But Nolan envisioned bigger things for Murphy, bringing him back for breakthrough appearances in Inception and Dunkirk before finally granting him a starring vehicle in Oppenheimer, their sixth collaboration. And upon offering Murphy his long-awaited leading man opportunity, Nolan penned him a touching note.
What Message Did Christopher Nolan’s Note for Cillian Murphy Convey?
Etched onto the first page of the Oppenheimer script itself, Nolan’s handwritten message for Murphy read: “Dearest Cillian. Finally, a chance to see you lead…Love, Chris.” The note expressed Nolan’s fondness and faith in Murphy’s abilities despite underutilizing them in past joint efforts. Having proven himself in supporting roles, Nolan implies Murphy merits headliner status and Oppenheimer finally provides it.
The note also reflects Nolan and Murphy’s personal rapport transcending mere professionalism. Signing it “Love, Chris” cements their creative bond and contains legitimate, lasting friendship too, a special dynamic that shows through in their collaborative magic.
Why Was Cillian Murphy Receiving Christopher Nolan’s Note So Meaningful?
For Cillian Murphy, Nolan’s words surely carried deep resonance. Beyond validating Murphy’s acting chops by entrusting him to carry a sprawling biopic, Nolan reaffirmed his loyalty to Murphy. Though Nolan easily could have chosen any A-lister for Oppenheimer’s complex lead, he specifically wished to showcase Murphy’s range there.
Spending over 15 years in Nolan’s company likely also made the sentiment behind the note especially poignant for Murphy. Such consistent belief and support from one of Hollywood’s most revered auteurs is rare for any performer – let alone those usually confined to supporting turns.
Yet Nolan always nurtured Murphy creatively despite underutilization criticisms. His touching note conveyed pride at finally rectifying Murphy’s overdue ascendance to lead actor stature.
As J. Robert Oppenheimer himself, Murphy delivers an exceptional performance that fully validates Nolan’s note promising his chance to shine at last. Playing the controversial “father of the atomic bomb” required immense emotional range and complexity and Murphy disappears wholly into the historical icon’s tortured psyche.
There’s little wonder Oppenheimer has earned Murphy the strongest reviews of his career, plus an avalanche of award nominations including his first Oscar and BAFTA nods for Best Actor. In his BAFTA acceptance speech, Murphy graciously thanked Nolan for the “exhilarating script” and for “always pushing me.” Clearly, Nolan’s touching note setting the stage for Murphy’s star-making vehicle will leave lasting impacts on both men’s careers.
