Drama,History   United States of America

"The Current War" is a historical drama film set in the late 19th century, directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon. The story revolves around the intense rivalry between two brilliant inventors, Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse, as they battle to dominate the burgeoning electricity industry and revolutionize the way people illuminate their lives.

The film begins with the introduction of Thomas Edison (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), who is already a renowned inventor due to his creation of the phonograph. Edison is determined to create a sustainable electric system that will replace gaslights, which were the primary source of lighting during that time. He believes in direct current (DC) and invests a significant amount of time and resources into developing a practical DC power distribution system.

Meanwhile, George Westinghouse (played by Michael Shannon), a successful entrepreneur and inventor himself, becomes aware of Edison's endeavors. Unlike Edison, Westinghouse supports alternating current (AC), which he believes is more safe, efficient, and capable of transmitting power over longer distances. Realizing the immense potential of AC, Westinghouse sets out to develop his own AC system, intending to challenge Edison's dominance.

As both inventors strive to perfect their respective systems, a fierce competition ensues. The race to electrify America becomes a battle not just between Edison and Westinghouse but also involving other prominent figures of the time, such as Nikola Tesla (played by Nicholas Hoult), who is hired by Edison but ultimately defects to Westinghouse due to differences in their philosophies.

Throughout the film, Edison and Westinghouse face numerous obstacles, including financial struggles, legal battles, and public skepticism. Edison, known for his relentless determination, resorts to smear campaigns and unethical tactics to tarnish Westinghouse's reputation and discredit AC power. On the other hand, Westinghouse's integrity and belief in the practicality of his AC system often put him at a disadvantage.

Eventually, the rivalry between Edison and Westinghouse reaches a climax with the widely publicized "Battle of the Currents." Edison organizes a public execution using Westinghouse's AC system to demonstrate its supposed danger, but Westinghouse counters with a massive display of AC power lighting up the Chicago World's Fair. The event becomes a turning point, slowly shifting public opinion in favor of Westinghouse and AC power.

In the end, after years of intense competition and legal battles, the government steps in to regulate the electricity industry. An agreement is reached, with Westinghouse agreeing to pay Edison royalties for his earlier patents, while both inventors' systems gain widespread adoption and coexist, contributing to the development of the modern electrical system.

"The Current War" delves into the personal lives, ambitions, and struggles faced by these two iconic figures while exploring the importance of innovation, perseverance, and the impact of their inventions on society, ultimately shaping the electrical landscape we know today.
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