The Current War is a 2017 historical drama film directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon and written by Michael Mitnick. The film tells the story of the intense competition between Thomas Edison (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), George Westinghouse (Michael Shannon), and Nikola Tesla (Ethan Hawke) to develop and commercialize electrical power in the late 19th century. This “war” of ideas, innovation, and egos ultimately shaped the future of electricity and the modern world.
Plot Summary
Set in the late 1800s, The Current War explores the rivalry between two of the most prominent figures in the history of electricity: Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse. Edison, a brilliant inventor, is passionate about direct current (DC) electricity, while Westinghouse, a wealthy businessman and engineer, backs alternating current (AC), a competing system. The film focuses on the fierce battle between the two men, each striving to prove that their method is the superior way to bring electricity to the world.
The film also introduces the key role of Nikola Tesla (played by Ethan Hawke), a brilliant and eccentric inventor whose ideas about electricity and power transmission are instrumental to the development of AC. Tesla, originally working for Edison, becomes disillusioned by Edison’s refusal to acknowledge his innovations and eventually allies with Westinghouse in the fight to popularize AC.
As Edison and Westinghouse clash, they each engage in public campaigns to demonstrate the dangers and advantages of their respective systems. Edison goes so far as to conduct public electrocutions of animals using Westinghouse’s AC to make it seem dangerous, while Westinghouse struggles to gain public support for AC, despite its technical advantages.
At its core, the film is about the interplay between genius, greed, and ambition. It reveals how personal grudges and corporate rivalries often drive innovation and the push for dominance in emerging industries. The battle for control over the future of electricity also raises questions about how progress is shaped by the forces of business, politics, and personal interests.
Main Cast and Characters
- Benedict Cumberbatch as Thomas Edison, the famous inventor known for his development of the electric light bulb and his promotion of direct current electricity. Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Edison emphasizes his stubbornness and relentless drive.
- Michael Shannon as George Westinghouse, the industrialist and inventor who believes in alternating current and the potential for a safer, more efficient electrical system. Shannon brings a sense of determination and business acumen to the character.
- Ethan Hawke as Nikola Tesla, the visionary inventor whose contributions to electrical engineering were crucial to the development of modern power systems. Hawke’s portrayal captures Tesla’s eccentricity and idealism.
- Nicholas Hoult as Samuel Insull, Edison’s assistant, who plays a key role in the development of Edison’s business empire.
- Tom Holland as the young and idealistic lawyer, who works on behalf of Westinghouse and becomes entangled in the business battles between Edison and Westinghouse.
- Matthew Macfadyen as J.P. Morgan, the powerful financier who plays a critical role in funding Edison’s and Westinghouse’s endeavors.
- Tuppence Middleton as Mary Edison, Thomas Edison’s wife, who provides emotional support during his battles.
Themes and Style
The Current War explores themes of innovation, competition, and the nature of scientific progress. At its heart, the film shows how two different approaches to technology can lead to groundbreaking advancements, but also how personal ambition and business interests can shape the course of history. It emphasizes the role of key figures like Edison and Westinghouse in shaping the future, and the idea that science and technology are often shaped by the personalities and decisions of those who lead the way.
The film also explores the ethical dilemmas that arise when business interests clash with scientific advancement. Edison’s unscrupulous tactics, such as trying to discredit AC by using public executions, highlight the darker side of ambition and the lengths to which people will go to secure victory.
Alfonso Gomez-Rejon’s direction, combined with the film’s visual style, brings a sense of urgency and excitement to the historical material. The period settings, along with the use of lighting and cinematography, reflect the electric energy of the story itself—both literally and figuratively.
Audience Reception
The Current War was met with mixed-to-positive reviews. While the performances, particularly those of Cumberbatch, Shannon, and Hawke, were praised, the film’s pacing and narrative structure received more critical attention. Some felt that the movie didn’t fully delve into the emotional complexity of the characters or the depth of the historical events it sought to portray. However, the film was still appreciated for bringing to light the fascinating and largely overlooked story of the battle for electrical supremacy.
Critics also noted that the film’s strong performances and its portrayal of the rivalry between Edison and Westinghouse made it an engaging watch for those interested in historical dramas, particularly those with a focus on technology and innovation. The film was also noted for its timely themes, considering the increasing relevance of renewable energy and new technologies in the present day.
Conclusion
The Current War (2017) is a compelling historical drama that tells the story of one of the most important and contentious battles in the history of technology—the fight to control the future of electricity. With standout performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Shannon, and Ethan Hawke, the film offers a gripping look at the personal and professional rivalries that helped shape the modern world. While the film may not fully explore all of the deeper ethical implications of the story, it succeeds in presenting a visually striking and engaging narrative about the power struggles that defined an era of innovation.
