“Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” are two of the most anticipated films of Summer 2023. The “Barbenheimer” phenomenon is gaining, as fans discuss how to enjoy both movie events on the same day, July 21st.
I met the real life Barbenheimer: Brianna Oppenheimer. She has a pink house and slays in a pink Barbie dress she rocked long before the project was announced. Her family roots on her father’s side come from Germany, the source of the famous last name, Oppenheimer.
Brianna, tell me about growing up as an Oppenheimer?
I am grateful for the strength of my grandfather. I am proud to be part of the Oppenheimer family. It definitely is a conversation starter, especially when someone knows a little bit of history of the atomic bomb and World War II. My grandfather escaped Nazi Germany in 1937, with his brother and parents. We are not sure of the direct link to J. Robert Oppenheimer.
My grandfather served in World War II as an agent for the Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor of the Central Intelligence Agency, using the native German language skills against the aggressor. He gained his US Citizenship after his service, married a fellow immigrant from Germany and started a life in New York City. His butcher shop, Oppenheimer Meats, was famous on the Upper West Side, for the quality of service and cuts, and not just for the well-known family name.
We found his naturalization and service records in the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, and were able to visit in 2022.
My father became a successful neurosurgeon, and encouraged me to follow my dreams in the creative arts. During the Pandemic, I discovered that Germany provided a way for me, my siblings and my father to re-nationalize as German citizens.
The German Consulate in Los Angeles was very helpful, even finding the ship manifest of the Oppenheimer family’s escape to the United States. Now I am able to work anywhere in Europe or the United States.
So, you like pink? How does that translate into your life?
I love pink and making everything pretty! I am an actress, singer, and model. I was born in California & moved all over the US. I started as a performer for the Jacksonville City Ballet & later attended New Orleans Center For Creative Arts, where I was able to lean into costumes and performances. I also worked as an assistant stylist for a period and love making people look fabulous! I went on to study Theater at Desales University & Psychology at Marymount Manhattan College.
How are you going to experience Barbenheimer?
I can’t wait to see “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” this summer! My father and I are going together to see “Oppenheimer” together, and reminisce on family experiences. We are both actors and cannot wait to see this cinematic masterpiece! I am huge fan of both Nolan and Gerwig. I hope to work them both one day! I will see “Barbie” with my wife, who celebrates and encourages my pink enthusiasm for furnishings, decor and clothes.
You can learn more about Brianna, the real-life Barbenheimer at visit briannaopp.com. Check out the Oppenheimer movie at https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15398776/. Check out the Barbie movie at https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1517268/.
