414Z Fall 2026 Dr. Strangelove, or I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

Film director Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove is considered to be one of the greatest black comedies and political satires in film history. This romp through the absurdities of Cold War rhetoric and nuclear brinksmanship shocked and thrilled audiences of the time. Many of its characters are embedded in the public consciousness, including George C. Scott as General Buck Turgidson, Sterling Hayden as General Ripper, Slim Pickens as Major Kong, and Peter Sellers as the president, British officer Mandrake, and the infamous mad scientist Dr. Strangelove. The presenter will provide an overview of the movie's making, how it satirized Cold War fears of nuclear holocaust, and why it has stood the test of time. Various clips from the movie will be shown to demonstrate issues and to highlight performances. Sufficient time will be allowed for attendees to share their insights, favorite lines, and performances from the film.

Michael Mason retired in 2019 after 33 years with the U.S. EPA. Michael has given multiple lectures for OLLI on literature and environmental history. He is the co-coordinator for the OLLI Classic Literature and Family History clubs. Michael writes political satire for OLLI's Writers' Workshop.