Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story (Movie)

1 Min Read
Title — Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story
Available on — Netflix, Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Hoopla, Chai Flicks, Netflix basic with Ads
Production Country — United States
Release Date — 2017
An unearthed audio interview of Hollywood icon Hedy Lamarr reveals a woman with brains as well as beauty, who was the first to patent frequency hopping.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

“Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” is a captivating documentary that delves into the extraordinary life of the renowned Hollywood movie star and brilliant inventor, Hedy Lamarr. Directed by Alexandra Dean, the film sheds light on Lamarr’s journey from escaping an oppressive marriage in Austria to becoming one of the leading ladies of Hollywood in the 1940s.

Behind the glitz and glamour of her Hollywood career, Lamarr’s inquisitive mind led her to invent a groundbreaking radio system that laid the foundation for Bluetooth technology. The documentary explores the dual legacy of Lamarr as both a captivating actress and a pioneering technological trailblazer.

The film highlights how Lamarr’s beauty and charm, which inspired iconic characters like Snow White and Cat Woman, coexisted with her remarkable intellect and innovation. Through unearthed audio interviews, viewers get a glimpse of Lamarr’s brilliance and her groundbreaking patent for frequency hopping.

“Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” is a poignant celebration of Lamarr’s remarkable journey from a Hollywood legend to a revered technology genius. Alexandra Dean skillfully crafts a narrative that showcases Lamarr’s resilience, intelligence, and the often overlooked aspects of her legacy beyond the silver screen.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Hedy Lamarr

Actor Role
Hedy Lamarr Herself
Mel Brooks Himself
Jennifer Hom Herself
Anthony Loder Himself
Wendy Colton Herself
Fleming Meeks Not specified
Richard Rhodes Not specified
Jan-Christopher Horak Not specified

💬 Reviews and feedback

Lights, camera, action! Get ready to dive into the mesmerizing world of “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” – a documentary that unveils the extraordinary life of Hollywood icon Hedy Lamarr, not just as a glamorous star but as a pioneering scientist.

Picture this: a tale of beauty, brains, and brilliance intertwined in a web of intrigue and innovation. As we delve into the depths of Hedy Lamarr’s life, we uncover a side of her that goes beyond the silver screen glamour. The documentary beautifully captures her journey, shedding light on her lesser-known contribution to science, particularly her groundbreaking invention related to frequency hopping during World War II.

The film takes us on a rollercoaster ride through Lamarr’s struggles and triumphs, showcasing her resilience in breaking free from societal expectations and carving her own path. It’s not just about the glitz and glamor; it’s a poignant narrative that reflects on our society’s shortcomings when faced with exceptional individuals like Lamarr.

The direction of the documentary is commendable, skillfully weaving together archival footage, interviews, and reenactments to paint a vivid portrait of this enigmatic figure. Alexandra Dean’s storytelling prowess shines through as she navigates through Lamarr’s inspiring yet tragic journey with finesse.

Acting and characters play a pivotal role in bringing this narrative to life. Through insightful interviews and compelling reenactments, the audience is transported back in time to witness the highs and lows of Lamarr’s life. The portrayal of Lamarr as more than just a Hollywood starlet but as a visionary inventor adds depth to her character, resonating with viewers on a profound level.

The cinematography captures the essence of different eras seamlessly, immersing viewers in Lamarr’s world with its visual richness. From the glitzy allure of old Hollywood to the stark realities of war-torn Europe, each frame is meticulously crafted to evoke emotions and create an immersive experience for the audience.

Production design deserves applause for recreating historical settings with authenticity and attention to detail. The seamless blend of past and present elements adds layers of complexity to the storytelling, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Special effects are used sparingly but effectively to enhance certain sequences and bring key moments in Lamarr’s life to vivid life. Whether it’s depicting wartime chaos or glamorous red carpet events, these effects serve to amplify the emotional impact of each scene.

Editing plays a crucial role in maintaining pacing and narrative flow throughout the documentary. The transitions between past and present are seamless, keeping viewers engaged without missing a beat. The editor deserves credit for striking the perfect balance between storytelling and visual appeal.

Now let’s talk about pace – “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” maintains an engaging pace that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. The narrative unfolds organically, allowing us to delve deeper into Lamarr’s world without feeling rushed or dragged out.

Dialogues are sharp and impactful, conveying emotions with precision while offering valuable insights into Lamarr’s thoughts and motivations. Each conversation feels authentic, drawing us closer to understanding the complexities of this remarkable woman.

Binge-watching Tip: Grab some popcorn , settle into your comfiest spot on the couch ️ , and get ready for an enlightening journey through Hedy Lamarr’s captivating life story!

As we bid adieu to this riveting cinematic experience, I rate “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” a solid 9/10 – an inspiring tale that celebrates resilience, innovation, and above all else, the indomitable spirit of one extraordinary woman who defied convention.

So go ahead, queue up this gem on Netflix or your preferred platform – you won’t be disappointed! Just remember: behind every bombshell lies a brilliant mind waiting to be discovered .

Pros Cons
Well directed documentary Repetitive storytelling
Sheds light on Hedy Lamarr’s life and contributions Some information may be already known to viewers
Inspiring and tragic portrayal of Hedy Lamarr Lacks in-depth exploration of certain aspects
Important parable of modern sexual politics Could have delved deeper into her personal struggles
Confirms Hedy Lamarr’s prowess as an inventor Does not offer new groundbreaking revelations
Good summary of Hedy Lamarr’s remarkable life Misses out on showcasing lesser-known facets of her life

Feedback

  • Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story (2017) - IMDb

    Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story

    • 2017
    • 1h 28m

    The life and career of the hailed Hollywood movie star and underappreciated genius inventor, Hedy Lamarr.The life and career of the hailed Hollywood movie star and underappreciated genius inventor, Hedy Lamarr.The life and career of the hailed Hollywood movie star and underappreciated genius inventor, Hedy Lamarr.

  • Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story - Wikipedia

    Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story(referred to onscreen as simply) is a 2017 American biographical documentary film directed, written and co-edited by Alexandra Dean, about the life of actress and inventor Hedy Lamarr. It had its world premiere at the 2017 Tribeca Film Festival and released theatrically on November 24, 2017. The film was broadcast in the United States on the PBS biography series

    Bombshell

    American Mastersin May 2018. As of April 2020, it was also available on Netflix.

  • Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story | Rotten Tomatoes

    Inspiring and tragic,Bombshellis a bittersweet celebration and reclamation of Hedy Lemarr’s journey from Hollywood legend to technology genius.

    Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr StoryWhere to WatchBombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story

    Watch Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story with a subscription on Netflix, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video.

    What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsCast & Crew

    Alexandra DeanDirectorMel BrooksSelfDiane KrugerSelfPeter BogdanovichSelfRichard RhodesSelfBob OsborneSelf

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

Let’s dive into the captivating world of “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story,” a 2017 American biographical documentary directed, written, and co-edited by Alexandra Dean. The film delves into the extraordinary life of actress and inventor Hedy Lamarr, from her humble beginnings as the daughter of Austrian Jews to her groundbreaking invention and Hollywood stardom.

The story unfolds as we follow Lamarr’s journey through fame, the challenges posed by the Nazi regime, her emigration to the United States, multiple marriages, acting career, and her revolutionary invention alongside George Antheil – the technology of frequency hopping.

The film sheds light on Lamarr’s complex relationships with influential figures like Louis B. Mayer, Max Jacobson (Dr. Feelgood), and director Cecil B. DeMille. It also explores Lamarr’s reclusive nature towards the end of her life, adding layers to her enigmatic persona.

Receiving critical acclaim, “Bombshell” holds an impressive 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 70, indicating its impact on both audiences and critics alike. Manohla Dargis of The New York Times praised the film for its portrayal of Lamarr’s ventures, both on and off the screen, while The Hollywood Reporter commended director Alexandra Dean for skillfully weaving together archival material to narrate Lamarr’s compelling life story.

Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times highlighted the timeliness of the film, emphasizing Lamarr’s innovative spirit and unapologetic approach to life. The film not only celebrates Lamarr’s Hollywood legacy but also recognizes her as a technology genius, painting a bittersweet yet inspiring portrait of her journey.

Since its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, “Bombshell” has garnered multiple awards, including a New York Times Critic’s Pick and five audience awards. J. Hoberman even named it one of the ten best films of 2017, solidifying its impact on the cinematic landscape.

Despite not receiving an Oscar nomination, the song “She” from the film by Alice Phoebe Lou made it to the shortlist for Best Original Song, further showcasing the film’s influence beyond the screen.

With its engaging storytelling, insightful exploration of Lamarr’s life, and critical acclaim, “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” stands as a testament to the indelible legacy of a woman who defied conventions in both the realms of entertainment and technology.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-14

Age Rating:

PG-13

Parental Guide:

Parents should be aware that “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” is rated PG-13 for some thematic elements and brief strong language. Here is a detailed breakdown of the content:

Sex & Nudity:

  • The film contains mild references to relationships and romantic encounters but does not feature any explicit sexual content.
  • There are no scenes of nudity or sexual activity depicted in the movie.

Violence & Gore:

  • There are no scenes of graphic violence or gore in the documentary.
  • Some archival footage may show historical events or mild confrontations, but they are not intense or disturbing.

Profanity:

  • Infrequent use of strong language, including a few instances of profanity.
  • Mild swear words and occasional cursing may be heard throughout the film.

Other:

  • The documentary focuses on the life and career of Hedy Lamarr, exploring her achievements as a Hollywood movie star and inventor.
  • Themes of perseverance, innovation, and overcoming challenges are prevalent throughout the film.

Overall, “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” is recommended for viewers aged 13 and above due to the thematic elements and brief strong language present in the documentary. Parents may find the film educational and inspiring for mature young audiences interested in the intersection of Hollywood stardom and scientific innovation.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix An unearthed audio interview of Hedy Lamarr reveals a woman with brains as well as beauty, who was the first to patent frequency hopping.
Prime Video They are both Hedy Lamarr, the glamour icon whose ravishing visage was the inspiration for Snow White and Cat Woman and a technological trailblazer who perfected a secure radio guidance system for Allied torpedoes during WWII.
Amazon Prime Video Currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video with Amc Plus add-on. You can buy or rent for as low as $2.99 to rent or $8.99 to buy.
Apple TV Inspiring and tragic, Bombshell is a bittersweet celebration and reclamation of Hedy Lemarr’s journey from Hollywood legend to technology genius.
Hoopla It is possible to watch Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story on Hoopla.
Chai Flicks It is possible to watch Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story on Chai Flicks.
Netflix basic with Ads It is possible to watch Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story on Netflix basic with Ads.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered - love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish, alternative motives - do good anyway.
    Hedy Lamarr
  • The biggest people with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest people ...
  • People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered. Love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway.
  • If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
  • The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
  • Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway.
  • The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds. Think big anyway.
  • People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs. Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
  • What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.
  • People really need help but may attack you if you do help them. Help people anyway.
  • Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway.

🤖Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story Reddit Talks

Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is a 2017 documentary film that explores the life of Hedy Lamarr, an Austrian-American actress and inventor. The film highlights Lamarr’s remarkable achievements in both the entertainment industry and the field of technology.

On Reddit, users have engaged in various discussions about the film, expressing their admiration for Lamarr’s multifaceted talents and her significant contributions to society.

Lamarr’s Legacy as an Actress and Inventor

Many Redditors praised Lamarr’s exceptional acting skills and her iconic status in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. They noted her captivating performances in films like “Algiers” (1938) and “Samson and Delilah” (1949), which solidified her position as one of the most renowned actresses of her time.

However, beyond her acting career, Redditors emphasized Lamarr’s remarkable intellect and her groundbreaking work as an inventor. They highlighted her development of a frequency-hopping spread spectrum communication system, which laid the foundation for modern Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. This invention, initially dismissed by the military, has since been recognized as a major advancement in the field of telecommunications.

Exploration of Lamarr’s Personal Life

Redditors also delved into Lamarr’s personal life, discussing her tumultuous relationships, her struggles with mental health, and her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry. They acknowledged the challenges she faced as a female inventor, as her ideas were often met with skepticism and resistance.

Some Redditors expressed admiration for Lamarr’s resilience and determination in pursuing her passions despite the obstacles she encountered. They highlighted her refusal to conform to societal expectations and her pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

Recognition of Lamarr’s True Legacy

Overall, Redditors agreed that “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” successfully sheds light on Lamarr’s true legacy as a pioneer in both entertainment and technology. They emphasized the importance of recognizing her contributions beyond her beauty and acting career, and acknowledged her as a brilliant inventor who deserves a place among the most influential figures of the 20th century.

Additional Points of Interest Discussed

  • Lamarr’s role as a model for the character of Snow White in Disney’s animated film.
  • The film’s portrayal of Lamarr’s struggles with mental health, including her experiences with bipolar disorder.
  • The ongoing debate surrounding Lamarr’s nudity in her early films and its impact on her career.
  • The film’s exploration of the intersection of art, science, and innovation in Lamarr’s life.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story a documentary?

Absolutely, Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is a well-directed documentary that delves into the life of Hollywood icon Hedy Lamarr, focusing not only on her glamorous persona but also on her significant contributions to science.

Is Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story on Netflix?

Yes, you can watch Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story on Netflix with a subscription. Additionally, you can rent it on Fandango at Home or Prime Video, or buy it on Fandango at Home or Prime Video.

What is the most famous Hedy Lamarr movie?

One of the most famous movies starring Hedy Lamarr is “Samson and Delilah,” where she portrayed Delilah opposite Victor Mature’s Samson. This iconic film from 1950 was a major success and even won two Oscars.

How did Hedy Lamarr invent frequency hopping?

Hedy Lamarr, along with her collaborator George Antheil, conceived the idea of frequency hopping while discussing the safety of Allied ships during wartime. This invention stemmed from their concerns about radio-controlled torpedoes and was a groundbreaking development.

What is the legacy of Hedy Lamarr portrayed in Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story?

Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story reveals how Lamarr’s true legacy extends beyond her Hollywood glamour; she is also celebrated as a technological trailblazer, highlighting her dual identity as a beauty icon and an ingenious inventor.

🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show

  1. Divide and Conquer: The Story of Roger Ailes – A documentary exploring the life and career of media mogul Roger Ailes.
  2. Dolores – A documentary about Dolores Huerta, a civil rights activist and co-founder of the United Farm Workers.
  3. Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It – A documentary showcasing the life and achievements of award-winning actress Rita Moreno.
  4. Bombshell (2019) – A drama film depicting the real-life scandal at Fox News involving sexual harassment allegations.
  5. True Story (2015) – A thriller based on the real-life events surrounding journalist Michael Finkel and accused murderer Christian Longo.
  6. The Assistant (2019) – A drama film exploring the toxic work environment and abuse of power in a film production company.

Wallpapers & Media

🔥 Audience Trends

✨ Discover more titles

✍️ Contribute to this page