The Current War: Director's Cut

Taking place in the 1880s, this period marks the dawn of electrical innovation and fierce competition in the United States. It saw major advances in technology as inventors fought for dominance in the electrical market. The decade was characterized by pivotal inventions that changed societal norms about energy consumption and the role of electricity in daily life.

The movie is set across various significant locations in the United States during the electrical revolution. New Jersey serves as Edison's base where he develops his inventions, while Manhattan is pivotal for his electrification efforts and the lighting of the NYSE. Pittsburgh is introduced as the home of Westinghouse, where crucial developments and competitions take place. Chicago, known for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, becomes the battleground for Edison's and Westinghouse's competing technologies.

⚔️ Competition

A central theme of the film is the fierce rivalry between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse as they battle for supremacy in the electrical landscape. The competition between Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC) not only represents a technological clash but also contrasts their personal philosophies and business ethics. This rivalry showcases the lengths to which innovators will go to protect their inventions and influence the future of power generation.

💔 Tragedy

The film also explores themes of personal and financial tragedy experienced by both Edison and Westinghouse. Edison's wife's death and Westinghouse's friend dying in an electrical accident reflect the personal toll of their pursuit of innovation. These tragedies humanize the figures and give depth to their motivations, highlighting the cost of their relentless ambitions.

💡 Innovation

At its core, the movie is a tribute to innovation and the quest for progress in the face of adversity. It illustrates the groundbreaking inventions that laid the foundation for modern electricity and showcases the creativity and perseverance of inventors like Edison, Tesla, and Westinghouse. The film emphasizes the duality of innovation—its potential for progress and the ethical implications that arise.