Christopher Nolan Reveals Why Michael Caine Turned Down Oppenheimer Ending 18-year Collaboration

Oppenheimer was sixth film that director Christopher Nolan would work on with actor Cillian Murphy. actor was finally able to play le in a Nolan production after five supporting roles in movies like Dunkirk and Batman Begins. director gave a shoutout to anor one of his longtime collaborators Michael Caine at British Film Institute chairman's dinner when he accepted BFI Fellowship.

Christopher Nolan explains Michael Caine’s absence from Oppenheimer

While accepting BFI Fellowship, Nolan thanked his producer and wife Emma Thomas, and discussed his relationship with Caine, who was also present at ceremony, as well as reason he wasn't cast in Oppenheimer. 

actor apparently told Nolan, ”Okay enough is enough. I h to go off on my own,” referring to his retirement from acting. director furr said, “So, okay, I haven’t got Michael Caine, I’d better get Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, Kenneth Branagh, Emily Blunt, Florence Pugh, Josh Hartnett, Cillian Murphy, Tom Conti, and hoped that all those greats would d up to one Michael Caine.”

What did Cillian say about Nolan getting honoured with BFI?

Nolan who is known for his groundbreaking work in movies like Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Dunkirk, and Oppenheimer was lauded for his unparalleled vision and impact on film industry. award ceremony took place at annual BFI Chair’s Dinner at Rosewood Hotel, attended by several veterans from film world, including Donna Langley, Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thomas, and Hans Zimmer, among ors.

Murphy hailed Nolan as a visionary and a legend and acknowledged privilege of collaborating closely with him over years. He said, “For last 25 years Christopher Nolan has been making films that are unique, boundary-pushing, singular, provocative, ambitious, and unforgettable. He is a one-in-a-million, a true legend, one of greatest directors in world. I have utmost respect for him as an artist and a human being.”