albert einstein biography documentary

Search for: Search Button

The 15 Best Documentaries About Albert Einstein

Oct 20, 2023 | Best Of , Celebrities , History , Science

albert einstein biography documentary

When it comes to understanding one of history’s greatest minds, no other resource is more revealing and engaging than documentaries about Albert Einstein. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with experts in the field, and reenactments of key moments from his life, these documentaries bring alive the brilliance of the Nobel Prize-winning physicist. As we trace his journey from student to scientist, it’s remarkable to see how Einstein changed and shaped the world of science in so many ways. From his revolutionary theories on relativity to his pioneering work with quantum mechanics, these documentaries will leave you inspired by the genius that was Albert Einstein.

1. Einstein (2008)

albert einstein biography documentary

2. Working With Einstein (1979)

albert einstein biography documentary

3. Einstein’s Universe (1979)

albert einstein biography documentary

4. Einstein and the Theory of Relativity (2020)

albert einstein biography documentary

5. Inside Einstein’s Mind (2015)

albert einstein biography documentary

The 10 Best Free Documentaries About Albert Einstein

1. albert einstein full documentary hd 2015.

Einstein’s scientific discoveries shook the foundations of most existing theories and opened a world of possibilities. This documentary looks at the life and work of Albert Einstein, the genius who changed the way we look at our universe. Through interviews with scientists, historians, and experts on his life, this film takes an in-depth look at how he made such revolutionary leaps in science, and how his discoveries have impacted our lives today. From the basics of relativity to his groundbreaking work on quantum mechanics, Albert Einstein’s impact on the world is undeniable.

2. Albert Einstein – Greatest Brain of the 20th Century Documentary

The video content has been checked for plagiarism with the Sribbr software, and the score came back at 3%. In academics, a rating of 15% or below is considered to be to an acceptable standard. So why not enjoy watching this amazing documentary about Albert Einstein? The film showcases his incredible life and career achievements, from theorizing the General Theory of Relativity to the discovery of nuclear energy. You’ll get an insight into his thoughts on faith and philosophy, as well as stories from family and friends who knew him best.

3. Albert Einstein – Biography of a Genius – Full Documentary

Albert Einstein was a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who revolutionized the field of science with his groundbreaking theories and discoveries. His most famous equation, E = m c2, is known as one of the world’s most recognizable equations. He developed two major pillars of modern physics : quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity. With these discoveries he forever changed the way scientists viewed the universe. He was also influential in the philosophy of science, and received the Nobel Prize for his work on Photoelectric effect which was a major step towards quantum theory. His impact on mankind has been extraordinary and he continues to be an inspiration for generations of scientists to come.

4. Theory Of Relativity Full Documentary – Best Story Of Albert Einstein’s Extraordinary Universe

Einstein’s Extraordinary Universe is a documentary that traverses three different regions to explore the legacy of Albert Einstein. By visiting research facilities across the globe, viewers can glimpse into how his theories continue to shape and challenge our understanding of the universe today—a full century after he first published them. The documentary provides audiences with an up-close and personal look into the science of our universe through engaging interviews, stunning visuals and other immersive elements. It is a great way to learn more about this remarkable man and his lasting impact on modern science.

5. Albert Einstein – Genius – Physics – Science – Part 1

Are you interested in learning more about one of the most brilliant minds of the 20th century? Do you want to uncover fascinating stories about Albert Einstein and his influence on modern science? Look no further than ExoticWorldVideos. Here, you can explore and appreciate some of the best documentaries about one of history’s greatest inventors. Einstein’s theories of relativity revolutionized the way we look at the world.

6. Albert EINSTEIN 1879 – 1955 HD Real Video Footage of His Life

Filmgoers get an intimate look into the life of Albert Einstein, from his pioneering work in theoretical physics to his later years advocating for peace and nuclear disarmament. Through newsreel, film, and home movie footage, we witness the incredible story of one of the world’s greatest minds. From his early success as a student to international accolades such as the Nobel Prize in Physics, Einstein’s brilliance and impact are made tangible. In addition, his commitment to world peace is clearly seen as he speaks out against nuclear arms during the height of the Cold War. From intellectual prodigy to humanitarian leader, this documentary provides a comprehensive look into the life of Albert Einstein.

7. Albert Einstein – Documentary

Copyright Disclaimer: This content is protected under the US Copyright Act of 1976. Fair use and educational purposes are considered when creating this material, allowing for comment, criticism, news reporting, teaching, scholarship and research. It is not intended to infringe upon any copyrights but rather to provide a unique perspective on the Albert Einstein documentaries. To ensure fair usage it is encouraged to keep the content non-profit, educational or for personal use. There are plenty of documentaries about Albert Einstein available to watch that explore his life and work. Some provide a comprehensive look into his scientific achievements while others focus on more personal aspects such as his relationships and philosophy on life.

8. Albert Einstein – Genius – Physics – Science – Part 2

As a child, I was fascinated by stories of extraordinary scientists who made amazing discoveries and pushed the boundaries of science. In particular, I was drawn to Albert Einstein — the man who revolutionized modern physics with his Theory of Relativity. To this day, his theories are studied and discussed in classrooms around the world. There have been many documentaries produced about Albert Einstein over the years, and they offer a wealth of information on his life and work. From his groundbreaking scientific research to his personal struggles, each documentary provides an in-depth look at one of history’s most influential figures.

9. What Inside Albert Einstein Mind The Theory of General Relativity Documentary NOVA Full HD

Albert Einstein is one of the most iconic and influential scientific figures in history. His theories of relativity have shaped our knowledge and understanding of physics, and his genius continues to fascinate people across the world. To get an even greater insight into this brilliant man’s life, there are a number of documentaries available which explore the subject in depth. NOVA’s ‘What’s Inside Albert Einstein’s Mind? The Theory of General Relativity Documentary’ is one such film, providing a comprehensive look at the theories which formed the basis of modern physics.

10. Albert Einstein Documentary

Explore the life of world-renowned physicist, Albert Einstein, with our comprehensive collection of eBooks and audiobooks. Our selection covers a range of topics from his childhood to his contribution to modern science and beyond. Get an in-depth look at Einstein’s theories, his family life, and much more – all provided through engaging texts and interviews. With such a rich collection of material, Einstein fans and students alike will be able to discover new details about this fascinating figure. Whether it’s learning more about his groundbreaking discoveries or delving into the life he led, you can find all the answers in our selection of titles.

Read On – Our Latest Top Documentaries Lists

The best documentaries about esports, the 11 best documentaries about madrid, the 3 best documentaries about vancouver, the 11 best documentaries about mumbai, the 9 best documentaries about the pretenders, the 11 best documentaries about usher, the 9 best documentaries about steven tyler, the 11 best documentaries about simon and garfunkel, the 11 best documentaries about sting, the 10 best documentaries about chance the rapper.

albert einstein biography documentary

Discover New Content

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Rotten Tomatoes Newsletter

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

  • Upcoming Movies and TV shows
  • Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
  • Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

  • What's the Tomatometer®?
  • Login/signup

albert einstein biography documentary

Movies in theaters

  • Opening this week
  • Top box office
  • Coming soon to theaters
  • Certified fresh movies

Movies at home

  • Fandango at Home
  • Prime Video
  • Most popular streaming movies
  • What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

  • 75% MaXXXine Link to MaXXXine
  • 91% Kill Link to Kill
  • 85% Remembering Gene Wilder Link to Remembering Gene Wilder

New TV Tonight

  • 94% Sunny: Season 1
  • -- Vikings: Valhalla: Season 3
  • -- Sausage Party: Foodtopia: Season 1
  • -- The Serpent Queen: Season 2
  • -- Me: Season 1
  • -- The Bachelorette: Season 21
  • -- Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer: Season 1
  • -- Melissa Etheridge: I'm Not Broken: Season 1
  • -- All American: Homecoming: Season 3

Most Popular TV on RT

  • 83% Star Wars: The Acolyte: Season 1
  • 100% Supacell: Season 1
  • 90% The Bear: Season 3
  • 90% House of the Dragon: Season 2
  • 93% The Boys: Season 4
  • 76% Presumed Innocent: Season 1
  • 93% My Lady Jane: Season 1
  • 82% Dark Matter: Season 1
  • -- The Mole: Season 2
  • Best TV Shows
  • Most Popular TV
  • TV & Streaming News

Certified fresh pick

  • 95% We Are Lady Parts: Season 2 Link to We Are Lady Parts: Season 2
  • All-Time Lists
  • Binge Guide
  • Comics on TV
  • Five Favorite Films
  • Video Interviews
  • Weekend Box Office
  • Weekly Ketchup
  • What to Watch

Every Shrek Movie, Ranked by Tomatometer

100 Best Movies on Tubi (July 2024)

What to Watch: In Theaters and On Streaming

‘Seen on the Screen’ Podcast: A Celebration of Universal Stories 

The Most Anticipated Movies of 2024

  • Trending on RT
  • Shark Movies
  • Mission Impossible 8
  • A24 Horror Movies

Einstein – Genius

Where to watch, genius — einstein.

Buy Genius — Einstein on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

Buoyed by a superb performance from Geoffrey Rush, Genius is a compelling origin story of one of history's most renowned scientists.

Critics Reviews

Audience reviews, cast & crew.

Claire Rushbrook

Pauline Einstein

Emily Watson

Elsa Einstein

Geoffrey Rush

Albert Einstein

Johnny Flynn

Michael McElhatton

Philipp Lenard

More Like This

Related tv news, season info.

Exploring Einstein: Life of a Genius

Exploring Einstein: Life of a Genius

Exploring Einstein: Life of a Genius

But, wracked with guilt over the real - world applications of his science – specifically, how the use of atomic weapons clashed with his religious beliefs – Einstein spent the last half of his life desperately trying to disprove the implications of so much of his work.

Learn how the greatest scientist of the 20th century would spend his final years enduring appalling professional humiliation. While most of the world hailed him as a genius, he slowly became a marginal figure within the scientific community – revered, but ignored. And it was all because he could not accept the fact that his life's work stood at odds with his personal beliefs.

More great documentaries

Einstein's Unfinished Symphony

You don't comment on this...But, General Relativity and the Theory of the Laser....entirely Einstein's....

You're a CON artist ...and I highly recommend you get your dumb act together...

Fizzycist

Even today there is hatred and jealousy of Einstein....and we certainly know why....

Robby Baker

Don't disagree with Einstein just to make yourself feel smart. Einstein's theories were accepted because all of the scientific minds at the time tested and failed to disprove Einstein. They weren't ramblings of a mad man. That was proven when he was right about the eclipse. He also theorized the Einstein-Bose condensate which has been created about 70 years after he "theorized" it and guess what? He was RIGHT.

shapeshiftingone

i think it is disappointing when the film makers obviously had access to some rare early footage and to some close collaborators intermingled with various bits of bowie talking as well that they still managed to skim over the actual content of most of his work and equally make some serious omissions along the way 'the man who sold the world' for example except to say 'here bowie wore a dress on his next album cover...' there was no attention payed to any of the live albums or infact the 'heroes tour...' at times there was a mish-mashing and compression of chronological information and album releases... 'lodger' also got lost in there -as his end piece to the 'berlin trilogy' of 70's albums that he made with brian eno- i dont think we need another puff piece about bowie i think there is a real opportunity now for an exploratory documentary of a massive body of work and the creator at the centre of that... this film made me at least imagine with my square eyes 'what if...' what if a great documentary filmmaker historian did an in depth study of our alien father as he stood through the second half of the 20th century and beyond... what if they had the budget and the person to make a hbo or a pbs 6 part series - now see how square my eyes are... it seems apparent to me that as early on as the name change to bowie and the release of 'space oddity' we have this integral questioning of the construct of self and the identity of character whether thats in this song or one about dylan or warhol or himself or a myriad of invented characters along the way who become fuel for the flame... i am of the school of thought that says bowie disappeared after the release of 1980's 'scary monsters' album and didnt start to reemerge again until the release of -his wedding album- 'black tie white noise' and then fully came back into being with his character explorations and miniature plays on the album 'outside' and since then 'earthling' 'heathen' and 'hours' all hold good qualities... i think that 'reality' wanes as another attempt to launch a world tour and audience though... i am ever hopeful after all this time -the years are mounting- that there may be another good recording to come...

Abhisek Sinha

if space time can bent, how can i make a 3D picture of the space-time??

Warren Clyde

just a thought, If the suns mass in space is causing a sort of dent of whcih all planets now are in its gravitational pull. wouldnt are view of the sun be obstructed even slightly?on top of the dent in space provoed by the sun, what about the dent provided by the other plaets earth included, if we are like a pond that ripples when a stone is thrown, the views of all the planets and the sun should in fact be obstrucuted.

James

"The kinetic energy increment could increase the mass only if it were actually converted to mass by some appropriate process, and in that event it would cease to be kinetic energy; that is, the corresponding velocity would no longer exist. Actually this hypothesis of Einstein's is inconsistent with his concept of the conversion of mass into energy, regardless of the point of view from which the question is approached. Mass cannot be a by-product of kinetic energy and also an entity that can be converted into kinetic energy; the two concepts are mutually exclusive... This hypothesis was formulated as a means of accounting for the otherwise unexplained decrease in acceleration at very high velocities (in particle accelerators), but in the system now being developed from the Fundamental Postulates this phenomenon is found to be due to the vanishing of (the electro-magnetic) force as velocity approaches unity, rather than to any variation in mass". (The Structure of the Physical Universe, Chapter XXXII) "In astronomy the currently accepted ideas are almost completely wrong, because of the strangely unquestioning acquiescence in Einstein's assumption that the experimentally observed decrease in acceleration at high speeds is due to an increase in mass, and that speeds in excess of that of light are therefore impossible. ...As has been demonstrated in the course of the development of the theory of the universe of motion (The Reciprocal System of Theory), the speed of light is a limit applying only to one-dimensional motion in space, and there are vast regions of the universe in which motion takes place in time, or in multi-dimensional space. Most of these are inaccessible to (sensory) observation from our position in the universe, but some of the entities and phenomena of these regions do have observable effects on the material sector (Pulsars and Quasars), the sector in which we make our observations". (The Universe of Motion, Chapter 10, )

Tesla statement on Einsteins theory: "Stating that the Einstein theory is erroneous in many respects, Dr. Tesla stated as early as 1900, in his patent 787,412, that the current of his transmitter passed over the surface of the Earth with a speed of 292,830 miles a second. According to Einstein the highest possible speed is 186,300 miles a second. Tesla indicated knowledge of speeds several times greater than light and had apparatus designed to project so-called electrons with a speed equal to twice that of light. Tesla disagreed with the part of the Einstein theory which states that the mass of an object increases with it's speed. The mass of a body is unalterable, contended Dr. Tesla, according to the article, 'otherwise energy could be produced from nothing, since kinetic energy acquired in the fall of a body would be greater than that necessary to lift it a small velocity'." (The Literary Digest, November 7th, 1931)

"Mass and Energy differ only in dimensions; that is, energy is the reciprocal of one-dimensional velocity while mass is the reciprocal of three-dimensional velocity. This mass-energy relation does not mean that a quantity of energy always has a certain mass associated with it; on the contrary it indicates that reciprocal velocity exists either as mass or as absolute momentum, or as absolute energy, depending on the effective dimensions, not as all three or any two simultaneously. Mass is equivalent to energy only when and if it is transformed from the one condition to the other and the mass-energy equation merely gives the (theoretical) mathematical equivalents in the event of such a conversion. In other words, an existing quantity of energy does not correspond to any existing mass but to the mass that would exist if the energy were actually converted into mass. For these reasons Einstein's hypothesis of an increase in mass accompanying increased velocity cannot be accepted". (The Structure of the Physical Universe, Chapter XXXII) Tesla also debased einstein's notion of an "increase of mass" due to acceleration in the following statement: "The kinetic and potential energy of a body is the result of motion and determined by the product of it's mass and the square of it's velocity. Let the mass be reduced and the energy is diminished by the same properties. If it be reduced to zero, the energy is likewise zero for any finite velocity." (New York Sun, July 12th, 1937)

1878 – James Maxwell in Scotland publishes Special Theory of Relativity in Encyclopedia Britannica which Einstein publishes as his own in 1905 without citing Maxwell 1888- Heinrich Hertz publishes his paper on the photoelectric effect, a paper which Einstein failed to cite 1898- Poincare in France wrote the paper on the theory of relativity, which never mentions Einstein, which Einstein plagiarized as one of his 1905 papers without citing Poincare 1900- Max Planck and Wilhelm Wien of Germany develop the quantum theory which Einstein plagiarized as his “Light Quantum” paper in 1905, citing neither Planck nor Wien 1903 – Olinto de Pretto publishes E=mc^2 in Atte, a scientific magazine known to be read by Einstein, which he later claimed as his own work and which he failed to cite 1904- Friedrich Hasenohrl of Germany, citing J.J. Thomson of England and W. Kaufmann of Sweden, publishes E=mc^2 in same journal as Einstein plagiarizes as his own in 1905, failing to cite any of the three 1905-Philipp Eduard Anton von Lenard, whom Einstein’s wife studied under, received a Nobel Prize for discovering the photo-electric effect, which Einstein plagiarizes the SAME year has “his” paper, with no reference to Lenard

Nappinnai NC

@NotSoFastMrJew

You show ignorance openly wrt Einsteins works. If you haven't had any basic Physics, don't even open your mouth. First of all Einstein was not given Nobel Price for Relativity Theory for which he should have won definitely. He was awarded Nobel Prize for his work on Quantum which was experimentally verified. On top of of stupidity, 1/2 that prize money went as alimony and the remaining half as charity. Nothing is too late to start learning.

If one reads Mileva, her brain is nowhere near Einstein's. Trajedy is all non-Physics guys are commenting on Einstein as if they are experts in Physics/Mathematics. The man behind Einstein's Mathematics was Marcel Grossmann. Einstein wasn't an expert in Math although ppl those days considered him as a Mathematician! So, he asked for a Mathematician who could help him convert his physical ideas into Math. This help is only true wrt his General relativity theory.

What's your degree? Go and get some education. Pray God gives you some brain...and stop writing nonsense. As a general remark Einstein didn't agree with the conceptual ideas on which QM was based. Any scientific theory can be disproved by some other scientist after couple of yrs or decades or centuries. That's why its called 'research'.

NotSoFastMrJew

Close, no cigar. The REAL title of the book is The Manufacture and Sale of Saint Einstein. I guess I got a little dyslexic with the title.

Epicurean_Logic

First it was Archimides wife (dumb joke) now your telling me that Einsteins 1st wife Mileva Maric was the brains of the operation!! Next you will be telling me that the queen of England is a woman, ah, well, you know...

It's really dissapointing to find out that Einstein was a mysogynist and horrible to Mileva. I have only read excerts as i can't find the free pdf.

can anyone link us to the free copy of 'The unexpected Einstein: The real man behind the icon' by Denis Bryan?

Luke Wilson

@NotsoFastMrJew:

Am no expert but it seems to me you dont particularly like jews. Now now that isnt very nice, is it?? Einstein deserves the credit he gets. Maybe his former wife does to??

Greg Robert

I'll let Albert answer for himself:

"Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former."

Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein = Zionist Fraud

There is a free to all, 1200+ page pdf internet book regarding the real Einstein. If this is your hero, you should at least know who he is. For example, because Einstein was a big supporter of Zion, Jews insisted he be given a Nobel Prize. Since Einstein was a purely theoretical scientist, he was never eligible for the prize to begin with. Nobel made it very clear that the prize was only for those conducting demonstrable, experimental science. Further, Einstein was known for presenting other scientists work as his own and he as much as admitted this during his life time. The theory of relativity was not his idea nor did relativity have anything to do with the subject of his Nobel Prize. Regardless, Einstein was required under the conditions of the Nobel Prize to give a speech on the subject of his Nobel Prize and he gave his speech on relativity as if his Nobel Prize was for the theory of relativity (which it clearly was not, look it up). The Jew controlled media continued on with it as if he really did receive a Nobel Prize for relativity.

There is also evidence to suggest his former wife was the one behind his elaborate mathematics. Einstein gave all of the Nobel Prize money to his former wife (and E. was well known as a Jew when it came to money, read "cheap skate"), a move that Einstein spent large amounts of time and money to conceal. Also, Einstein was never known for his elaborate mathematics after his split with this particular wife.

So, what do you know? The Jews have lied again.

The conclusions reached in the summary above are garbage.

Yes je was unhappy about his role in the initiation of the Manhattan project but he was NOT wracked with guilt about his scientific theories in any way. The summary mixes his personal life with his theoretical life in an entirely wrong-headed manner.

And today there is a recognition that he was almost certainly on the right track in his search for a grand-unified theory of physics, though he simply didn't have the necessary scientific research available upon which to base it (comprehensive high-energy physics, cosmology, dark matter and energy, the cosmic background radiation, and some modern maths).

It's true he never yielded completely to the findings and implications of modern quantum theory, and he was almost certainly wrong in that particular stubbornness (see Bell, Aspect, et al), but he still served as an extremely effective devil's advocate in forcing quantum theory to heights of discipline and articulation (see Bohr).

Or, as Einstein himself might characterize the summary-writer, "He's not even wrong".

fred

Hi, Does anyone know the name of the aria at the very beginning of part one? Thanks

pete

Hi At the very end of Part 5 of "Exploring Einstein, Life of a Genius" ther is a black and white image if Einstein. I can't seem to find it anywhere. Any ideas of where it can be found and saved for future printing Thanks

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

‘Genius’ Unravels the Mysteries of Einstein’s Universe

albert einstein biography documentary

By Dennis Overbye

  • April 17, 2017

“Genius,” a new 10-part series about Albert Einstein on the National Geographic Channel, starts off with a bang.

First, we see Einstein’s friend, the German foreign minister Walter Rathenau, shot and blown up in his car by a gang of Nazis.

Then we cut to Einstein, played by Geoffrey Rush, in his study, making love to his secretary, Betty, against a blackboard covered with equations. It is June 1922 and he is 43, already famous for overturning the universe with his theory of relativity, being attacked in Germany as the proselytizer of “Jewish science” and in danger of becoming the next Nazi victim.

“Move in with me,” he says.

She protests that he is already married.

“I love Mozart and Bach,” Einstein says. “Why can’t I love you and Elsa?”

Frustrated, she declares that he might know a lot about the universe, but nothing about people.

If your image of Albert Einstein is the sockless frizzy-haired wizard who wandered the streets of Princeton, you might be taken aback to first encounter the great wizard with his pants down. But this is not your father’s biopic. It’s about time to meet the real guy behind the cuddly accent and the curvature of space-time.

In the last three decades, scholars from the Einstein Papers Project, sponsored by Princeton University Press and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, have dived into troves of previously sealed or unknown correspondence. What they found is a lot about Einstein’s life that belies the images on T- shirts and calendars.

albert einstein biography documentary

Albert Einstein and Relativity in the Pages of The Times

When Albert Einstein and his work first became known to the broader public, articles in The Times often seemed to alternate between exasperation and fascination.

albert einstein biography documentary

When Einstein Was Wrong

Scientists have confirmed the existence of gravitational waves, the ripples in the fabric of space-time that Einstein predicted a century ago. But what theories did he get wrong? Here are a few examples.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

Every print subscription comes with full digital access

Science News

The drama of albert einstein’s life unfolds in the new series genius.

TV show focuses on famed physicist’s personal life

Geoffrey Rush as Einstein

LIFE STORY   Genius depicts the life of Albert Einstein (played by Geoffrey Rush), including his reaction to the rise of Nazi power in Germany.

Courtesy of National Geographic

Share this:

By Emily Conover

April 16, 2017 at 8:00 am

View trailer

Albert Einstein was a master of physics, but his talent in personal relationships was decidedly underdeveloped. A new 10-episode series, Genius , airing on the National Geographic Channel, focuses on the facets of Einstein’s life where he was anything but a virtuoso.

Genius is a dramatization, not a documentary. The series reveals the human side of the famously brainy physicist — through Einstein’s numerous romantic liaisons and his reactions to world political events, including two world wars and his departure from Nazi Germany. Unfortunately, although Einstein’s personal life reveals insights into his character, Genius ends up sacrificing science for the sensational. The first episode, for instance, opens with a murder followed by a sex scene.

Viewers shouldn’t expect to learn much about the science of Einstein’s discoveries, at least based on the first two episodes that were available for review. The explanations are vague enough that those unfamiliar with Einstein’s theories will understand little, and those who know them won’t learn anything new.

Based on Walter Isaacson’s book Einstein: His Life and Universe , the television series leapfrogs from one time period to another, contrasting the scientific enthusiasm of the brash young Einstein (played by Johnny Flynn) with the more sedate ruminations of the elder, established physicist (Geoffrey Rush). While time traveling from one period to another, the show plays up Einstein’s fascination with time.

Premieres April 25

National geographic channel .

The young Einstein is portrayed as a brilliant, willful character. After dropping out of high school, he fails an entrance exam to Zurich Polytechnic. He is finally admitted a year later, in 1896, after additional schooling. There, he skips classes, challenges professors who are reluctant to teach cutting-edge theories and studies mainly on his own.

Meanwhile, the young Einstein’s love life makes for surprisingly dramatic vignettes. In one scene, his lover Mileva Marić (Samantha Colley) — a fellow physics student in Zurich who would later become his first wife — realizes Einstein has yet to break things off with his first flame, Marie Winteler (Shannon Tarbet). Marić smashes a teapot against the wall and then, distraught, berates Einstein for his thoughtlessness.

Despite his smarts, Einstein is not always the hero of his own story. As he plays fast and loose with his lovers’ hearts, viewers may find themselves siding with the women. As the show recounts Marić’s childhood in Serbia and her struggle to become a physicist when few institutions were willing to educate women, Marić sometimes seems the more impressive member of the pair. (Marić doesn’t continue on in physics, after failing her exams and becoming pregnant.) Einstein eventually marries Marić in 1903, then divorces her in 1919, a few years after beginning an affair with his cousin Elsa (Emily Watson), who becomes his second wife.

The older, famous Einstein possesses the same stubborn determination as his younger self. Despite the anti-Semitic sentiment in the run-up to World War II, Einstein, a Jew, initially resists leaving Germany. But circumstances eventually change his mind. In 1922, Einstein’s friend, German foreign minister Walther Rathenau, who is also Jewish, is assassinated. And then prominent anti-Semitic scientists, including Nobel laureate Philipp Lenard, denounce Einstein. By 1933, the situation becomes unbearable, and Albert and Elsa leave for the United States.

Overall, Genius portrays Einstein as a complicated human, not just a cartoonish brainiac. Those unfamiliar with Einstein’s personal life will see the scientist in a new light. But be prepared for an emphasis on drama, sex and love stories, not science.

More Stories from Science News on Physics

Laboratory equipment used to produce high-assay low-enriched uranium.

Advanced nuclear reactors need a different type of uranium. Here’s 4 things to know 

An illustration of the Earth sliced in half to expose a glowing inner core

Something weird is happening to Earth’s inner core

An artistic rendering shows a glowing orb of light with light beams streaming in

A black hole made from pure light is impossible, thanks to quantum physics 

Red squiggles representing photons are sent into a loop representing the optical fiber in an interferometer, which surrounds Earth on a starry backdrop

Physicists measured Earth’s rotation using quantum entanglement

Art of four eggs, from left to right, getting progressively more cracked. In the far right egg, it's cracked to the point the yolk is slipping out.

The second law of thermodynamics underlies nearly everything. But is it inviolable?

A swirl of two particles represents the tauonium atom in an illustration. The atom has emerged from a particle detector represented by a series of concentric cylinders, centered around a beam line where electrons and positrons enter from either side.

Scientists propose a hunt for never-before-seen ‘tauonium’ atoms 

Illustration showing three atoms, representing quantum memories, are connected by lines, representing entanglement, over a cityscape backdrop.

Two real-world tests of quantum memories bring a quantum internet closer to reality

An illustration shows water molecules arranged in hexagons and other shapes surrounded by ice

Here’s how ice may get so slippery 

Subscribers, enter your e-mail address for full access to the Science News archives and digital editions.

Not a subscriber? Become one now .

Screen Rant

Who plays albert einstein in netflix's einstein and the bomb.

4

Your changes have been saved

Email Is sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

Oppenheimer: What Albert Einstein Has Said About The Manhattan Project In Real Life

Harry potter's ron weasley star & his yule ball partner reunite 19 years later in new photo, star wars finally explains why the jedi never suspected palpatine was a sith lord.

  • Aidan McArdle plays Albert Einstein in the Netflix documentary "Einstein and the Bomb," embodying the role based on real-life quotes and writings.
  • Following the release of Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer," interest in Einstein's involvement with the atomic bomb has risen.
  • "Einstein and the Bomb" is not the first time Aidan McArdle has portrayed Albert Einstein on screen, having previously played him in other docudramas and television programs.

Netflix has released a new documentary — Einstein and the Bomb — which features reenactments of various moments in Albert Einstein's life, and one Irish actor plays the German-born theoretical physicist in the movie. The 2024 docudrama chronicles Einstein's life and career, following his move from Nazi Germany to the United States in the 1930s to the extent of his involvement in the creation of the atomic bomb. The one hour and 16 minutes film includes archival footage from World War II and dramatization involving hired actors to tell the story of one of the most influential scientists in history.

Interest in Einstein's contributions to the atomic bomb at the height of World War II rose following the release of Christoper Nolan's Oppenheimer . Tom Conti portrays the theoretical physicist in the epic biographical drama movie. While the actor's role is minor, it still serves a significant purpose because of the relationship between J. Robert Oppenheimer and Einstein. Following Nolan's 2023 film, many were interested in learning if and how Einstein was involved with the Manhattan Project, likely resulting in Netflix releasing Einstein and the Bomb (conveniently on the same day Oppenheimer made its streaming debut on Peacock).

Oppenheimer Poster

Oppenheimer

Oppenheimer is a film by Christopher Nolan, which follows the theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, the man behind the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy will play the titular role, with the story based on the book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin.

Aidan McArdle Portrays Albert Einstein In Einstein And The Bomb

Aidan McArdle as Albert Einstein in Einstein and the Bomb.

Aidan McArdle plays Albert Einstein in the Netflix documentary movie Einstein and the Bomb . The actor is introduced at the film's beginning in a reenactment scene of Einstein in his office in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1955. The scientist is listening to a radio show discussing the effects of the United States detonating two atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki to end World War II, killing hundreds of thousands of people. Then, the documentary shows archival footage of the real Einstein, and the rest of the movie continues jumping between the two mediums.

Einstein and the Bomb debuted on Netflix on February 16, 2024, and Peacock added Oppenheimer to its streaming library on the same day.

As Einstein and the Bomb points out at the start, everything that McArdle says while in character as Einstein is from the theoretical physicist himself, whether he said it out loud or wrote it down. So, while McArdle is playing a role in the Netflix docudrama, his acting is rooted in real life. However, McArdle is no stranger to playing Einstein, which likely made it easier to embody the part in Einstein and the Bomb .

An image of Einstein in Oppenheimer and an atomic bomb going off

While Einstein's brief role in Christopher Nolan’s film Oppenheimer depicts his link to the atomic bomb, his real-life statements contradict this.

What Other Movies & Shows Aidan McArdle Has Appeared In

Aidan McArdle as Albert Einstein in Einstein and the Bomb.

Einstein and the Bomb is not the first time Aidan McArdle has portrayed Albert Einstein on the screen. According to his IMDb , the actor previously played the famous scientist in Einstein's Big Idea (a PBC docudrama) and Nova (a PBS science television program). Aside from his portrayals of Einstein, those who watched Netflix 's Einstein and the Bomb may recognize McArdle from his roles in Ella Enchanted , The Duchess , Sense8 , The Fall , or Blackshore .

Source: IMDb

Netflix

albert einstein biography documentary

  • Rent or buy
  • Categories Categories
  • Getting Started

albert einstein biography documentary

Who was Albert Einstein A Documentary

3 global ratings

How are ratings calculated? Toggle Expand Toggle Expand

  • About Amazon
  • Investor Relations
  • Amazon Devices
  • Amazon Science
  • Sell products on Amazon
  • Sell on Amazon Business
  • Sell apps on Amazon
  • Become an Affiliate
  • Advertise Your Products
  • Self-Publish with Us
  • Host an Amazon Hub
  • › See More Make Money with Us
  • Amazon Business Card
  • Shop with Points
  • Reload Your Balance
  • Amazon Currency Converter
  • Amazon and COVID-19
  • Your Account
  • Your Orders
  • Shipping Rates & Policies
  • Returns & Replacements
  • Manage Your Content and Devices
 
 
 
   
  • Conditions of Use
  • Privacy Notice
  • Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
  • Your Ads Privacy Choices

albert einstein biography documentary

albert einstein biography documentary

  • Cast & crew
  • User reviews

A. Einstein: How I See the World

  • Episode aired Jul 22, 1991

Albert Einstein in A. Einstein: How I See the World (1991)

Documentary on physicist Albert Einstein which chronicles the experiences that led him to become a great advocate for world peace. Documentary on physicist Albert Einstein which chronicles the experiences that led him to become a great advocate for world peace. Documentary on physicist Albert Einstein which chronicles the experiences that led him to become a great advocate for world peace.

  • Richard Kroehling
  • Laura Nathanson
  • William Hurt
  • Albert Einstein
  • 2 User reviews

Albert Einstein in A. Einstein: How I See the World (1991)

  • (archive footage)
  • All cast & crew
  • Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

User reviews 2

  • May 19, 2016
  • July 22, 1991 (United States)
  • United States
  • Offical site
  • A. Einstein on How I See the World on American Masters
  • 1515 Productions Limited
  • American Masters Pictures
  • American Masters
  • See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

  • Black and White

Related news

Contribute to this page.

  • IMDb Answers: Help fill gaps in our data
  • Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed.

albert einstein biography documentary

WatchDocumentaries.com

  • Art & Artists
  • Business & Economics
  • Environment
  • Military & War
  • Performing Arts
  • Recommended

Albert Einstein

Preload Image

The Sex Chamber

An insight into the life and achievements of scientific genius Albert Einstein, whose ground-breaking theories have reshaped our view and understanding of the universe.

This enthralling History Channel documentary narrates the development of Einstein’s ground-breaking general theory of relativity. His new provocative theory, introduced two hundred years after Newton’s law of universal gravitation, shook the scientific community by suggesting that gravity is the product of the curvature in space-time caused by matter.

Related videos

What Darwin Never Knew

What Darwin Never Knew

Inside the Milky Way

Inside the Milky Way

I Am Heath Ledger

I Am Heath Ledger

Johnny Cash: The Last Great American

Johnny Cash: The Last Great American

When Will Humans Live on Mars?

When Will Humans Live on Mars?

Amazon Empire: The Rise and Reign of Jeff Bezos

Amazon Empire: The Rise and Reign of Jeff Bezos

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Enhanced Page Navigation

  • Albert Einstein - Documentary

Albert Einstein

Documentary.

At a dinner at the Savoy Hotel, London, England, on 27 October 1930, the author George Bernard Shaw paid tribute to Professor Albert Einstein in an after-dinner speech.*

Credit: ITN Archive/Reuters

* The event is described in a book by Abraham Pais, Einstein Lived Here (page 181), published by Clarendon Press in 1994.

Nobel Prizes and laureates

Nobel prizes 2023.

Illustration

COMMENTS

  1. The 15 Best Documentaries About Albert Einstein

    3. Albert Einstein - Biography of a Genius - Full Documentary. Albert Einstein was a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who revolutionized the field of science with his groundbreaking theories and discoveries. His most famous equation, E = m c2, is known as one of the world's most recognizable equations.

  2. Albert Einstein

    Albert Einstein (14 March 1879 - 18 April 1955) was a German-born theoretical physicist who developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of mod...

  3. Genius (TV Series 2017- )

    Genius: Created by Kenneth Biller, Noah Pink, Suzan-Lori Parks, Jeff Stetson. With Samantha Colley, Seth Gabel, Antonio Banderas, Clémence Poésy. The life stories of history's greatest minds, from their days as young adults to their final years: their discoveries, loves, relationships, causes, flaws, and genius.

  4. Genius (American TV series)

    Genius is an American biographical anthology drama television series developed by Noah Pink and Kenneth Biller which premiered on National Geographic.The first season, which aired between April and June 2017, followed the life of Albert Einstein, from his early years, through his time as a patent clerk, and into his later years as a physicist who developed the theory of relativity; the season ...

  5. "Genius" Einstein: Chapter One (TV Episode 2017)

    Einstein: Chapter One: Directed by Ron Howard. With Geoffrey Rush, Johnny Flynn, Samantha Colley, Richard Topol. The story of Albert Einstein, seen through glimpses of his twilight years and flashbacks to his time as a student in Munich and Zürich in the 1890s.

  6. Genius: Einstein

    Einstein - Genius. 2017 Drama History. List. 84% Tomatometer 31 Reviews. 91% Audience Score 250+ Ratings. The anthology series focuses on untold stories of the world's most brilliant innovators.

  7. Watch Genius, Season 1

    Albert Einstein (Geoffrey Rush) settles into life in America, but dangers abroad continue to be a threat to both him and his former colleagues. Available to buy. Buy HD $2.99. More purchase options. S1 E10 - Einstein: Chapter Ten. June 19, 2017. 54min. TV-14.

  8. Exploring Einstein: Life of a Genius

    6.10. Ratings: 6.10 / 10 from 62 users . One hundred years ago, Albert Einstein changed the world with four papers that led directly to the development of atomic weapons, space travel, satellite technology and a profound understanding of the universe. But, wracked with guilt over the real - world applications of his science - specifically ...

  9. Einstein (TV Movie 2008)

    Einstein: Directed by Philip Shane. With Clifford V. Johnson, Michio Kaku, Maggie Mae Reid, Neil deGrasse Tyson. The life story and achievements of dreamer and physicist Albert Einstein.

  10. 'Genius' Unravels the Mysteries of Einstein's Universe

    April 17, 2017. "Genius," a new 10-part series about Albert Einstein on the National Geographic Channel, starts off with a bang. First, we see Einstein's friend, the German foreign minister ...

  11. Einstein and the Bomb Docudrama Explores the Physicist's Biggest Moral

    Einstein and the Bomb Docudrama Explores the Physicist's Biggest Moral Dilemma - Netflix Tudum. Using archival audio and writing from Einstein himself, the new doc from director Anthony Philipson explores the scientist's role in history.

  12. [HD] Documentary: Life of Albert Einstein

    Watch this HD documentary to learn about the life of Albert Einstein, the genius who revolutionized physics and changed the world with his discoveries.

  13. Einstein's Big Idea

    Einstein's Big Idea. Over 100 years ago, Albert Einstein grappled with the implications of his revolutionary special theory of relativity and came to a startling conclusion: mass and energy are ...

  14. Albert Einstein's Most Brilliant Theories

    Born in Germany in 1879, Albert Einst... A profile of one of the 20th century's most important minds and recognizable faces--his very name a synonym for genius. Born in Germany in 1879, Albert ...

  15. The drama of Albert Einstein's life unfolds in the new series

    By Emily Conover. April 16, 2017 at 8:00 am. View trailer. Albert Einstein was a master of physics, but his talent in personal relationships was decidedly underdeveloped. A new 10-episode series ...

  16. Who Plays Albert Einstein In Netflix's Einstein And The Bomb

    Netflix has released a new documentary — Einstein and the Bomb — which features reenactments of various moments in Albert Einstein's life, and one Irish actor plays the German-born theoretical physicist in the movie. The 2024 docudrama chronicles Einstein's life and career, following his move from Nazi Germany to the United States in the 1930s to the extent of his involvement in the ...

  17. Watch Who was Albert Einstein A Documentary

    Who was Albert Einstein is a documentary dedicated to educate viewers on Albert Einstein and all of his discoveries. ... Bio- Series. By ordering or viewing, you agree to our Terms. Sold by Amazon.com Services LLC. Reviews. 2.4 out of 5 stars. 3 global ratings. 5 star. 0%. 4 star. 47%. 3 star. 0%.

  18. A. Einstein: How I See the World

    A. Einstein: How I See the World: Directed by Richard Kroehling. With William Hurt, Albert Einstein. Documentary on physicist Albert Einstein which chronicles the experiences that led him to become a great advocate for world peace.

  19. Albert Einstein (2008)

    2008. 1. An insight into the life and achievements of scientific genius Albert Einstein, whose ground-breaking theories have reshaped our view and understanding of the universe. This enthralling History Channel documentary narrates the development of Einstein's ground-breaking general theory of relativity.

  20. Albert Einstein

    For early access to our videos, discounted merch and many other exclusive perks please support us as a Patron or Member...Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/the...

  21. Albert Einstein

    At a dinner at the Savoy Hotel, London, England, on 27 October 1930, the author George Bernard Shaw paid tribute to Professor Albert Einstein in an after-dinner speech.*. * The event is described in a book by Abraham Pais, Einstein Lived Here (page 181), published by Clarendon Press in 1994. MLA style: Albert Einstein - Documentary.

  22. Albert Einstein

    Albert Einstein (14 March 1879 - 18 April 1955) was a German-born theoretical physicist who developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics (alongside quantum mechanics). His work is also known for its influence on the philosophy of science. He is best known to the general public for his mass-energy equivalence formula E = m c 2 , which has been dubbed "the ...

  23. Albert Einstein: A Documentary Biography

    Albert Einstein: A Documentary Biography. Carl Seelig. Staples Press, 1956 - Physicists - 240 pages. From inside the book ... Aarau Academy admiration Adolf Hurwitz Albert Einstein already appointed asked atom autumn Berlin Berne bomb colleague Conrad Habicht discuss doctorate Ehrat Ehrenfest Einstein wrote electrodynamics equations Ernst Ernst ...