The representation of nuclear power in cinema: The contribution of a filmic analysis to understanding the public debate

International audienceRepresentations of the nuclear industry in European countries play a determining role in the public debate and the development of energy policies. Cinematic fiction as a media object contributes to our understanding of social reality and also exercises a major influence on public opinion, because of its ability to "colonize" awareness. The risk of nuclear conflict and the effects of radiation have inspired many filmmakers. However, there are far fewer films dedicated to the civilian use of nuclear power. Nevertheless, some notable works make it possible to investigate the topic through a focus on the relationship of man to their work in the sector, in particular the challenges of subcontracting maintenance activities, which is represented in terms of modern slavery. The first part of this article outlines the methodology used to analyse how civilian nuclear power is represented in film. The second part puts the methodology into perspective and shows how workers in the sector are represented in a French film. Finally, the third part shows how this representation fits into the nuclear debate in France