Watch The Atomic Man

The Atomic Man is a science-fiction film from 1955 that follows the story of a nuclear physicist named Dr. Stephen Rayner, played by Peter Arne. Dr. Rayner goes missing after a plane crash in Switzerland, and when he is found, he has been horribly disfigured and is radioactive. He is rushed to hospital in London, where he is put into a sealed room for further examination.

The British Intelligence agency MI5 is informed of Dr. Rayner's condition and immediately sends their top agent, Brockett, played by Gene Nelson, to investigate. Upon arriving in London, Brockett pairs up with Dr. Patricia Hill, played by Faith Domergue, who had been previously working with Dr. Rayner on a secret project related to atomic energy.

As Brockett and Hill delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a diabolical plot involving a communist spy ring and the development of an atomic weapon that could destroy the entire city of London. The spy ring is led by a cold and calculating criminal mastermind named Craig, played by Joseph Tomelty, who aims to use Dr. Rayner's knowledge to build the weapon and fulfill his plan.

Brockett and Hill race against time to track down Craig and his operatives and prevent the catastrophic destruction of London. They must also find a way to cure Dr. Rayner's condition and discover the secrets behind the technology he was working on. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles, including high-speed car chases, tense shootouts, and dramatic rooftop confrontations with the spies.

The Atomic Man is a classic example of 1950s science-fiction film, with its themes of atomic energy and espionage reflecting the anxieties of the Cold War era. The film's special effects, particularly the scenes depicting Dr. Rayner's radiation-induced transformation, were groundbreaking at the time and still hold up well today. The film's pacing is brisk and the plot twists keep the audience engaged throughout.

The film also features strong performances from its lead actors. Gene Nelson delivers a convincing portrayal of the tough, no-nonsense agent who is willing to do whatever it takes to save London. Faith Domergue's Dr. Hill is also a formidable character, serving as a capable scientist and a capable ally to Brockett. Joseph Tomelty's villainous Craig is suitably menacing, with his ruthless determination making him a formidable foe.

Overall, The Atomic Man is an exciting and suspenseful film that will appeal to fans of classic sci-fi and action movies. Its compelling plot and strong performances make it a must-see for anyone interested in the genre. While it may seem dated by today's standards, it remains a testament to the creativity and innovation of 1950s cinema.

The Atomic Man is a 1956 science fiction movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.