Summary

Atomic Energy as a Force for Good

Source Archive Films by Getty Images
Title: Atomic Energy as a Force for Good
File Number: PA-2340 Beta SP; PA-0190 Beta SP
Color: B W
Type: Educational Industrial
Year: 1955
Subjects: ATOMIC ENERGY NUCLEAR RADIATION BOMBS A-BOMBS COLD WAR ATOM EXPLOSIONS BLASTS RANCHES RANCHERS FARMS FARMERS ANIMALS PARENTS CHILDREN ILLNESS MEDICINE SICKNESS NEVADA RELIGION DRAMA NARRATIVES
Description: Atomic Energy as a Force for Good PAUL KELLY -- "JOHN VERNON" Describes the reactions of citizens of a small town to the construction of an atomic energy plant in their community. Explains that an understanding by the citizenry of the peaceful applications of atomic energy influences their attitude. Ken Smith sez: This slow-moving melodrama stars former Hollywood heartthrob (and convicted murderer) Paul Kelly as "John Vernon," a desert ranch owner. The AEC wants to build a "fissionable material" plant on Kelly's land, but pacifist Paul tells them to go jump in some cooling water. That is, until smooth-talking Congressman Maynard comes to town. He tells Paul that fissionable material can be used for a lot of good things -- such as a medical tracer that can determine the exact location of Paul's granddaughter's BRAIN TUMOR. Whoa, let me reconsider, says Paul. "God made the atom," summarizes one of Paul's crusty neighbors. "And God never made anything of itself that was evil." Paul Kelly died shortly after shooting was completed. This film was the follow-up to ATOMIC ENERGY CAN BE A BLESSING, which starred Fred MacMurray.
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