From Destruction to Healing: The Dual Legacy of Dr. Robert Wilson

In 1942, the United States launched the Manhattan Project to develop the first atomic bomb, with Dr. Robert Wilson among its brilliant scientists. Disillusioned by the destruction, he later pioneered Proton Therapy in 1946, a groundbreaking cancer treatment used worldwide today.

Trailer

The Accelerator

Play Video

Prairie Surf Media

Presents in association with

Bragg Peak Productions

And

1577 Productions

Executive Producer

David Raubach

Produced by

Matt Payne

Line Producer

Tanya Ruby

Directed by

Wendy Garrett

Music by

Steven Drozd

Editor

Christopher Hunt

An extraordinary tribute to a man whose genius shaped two sides of humanity: destruction and healing. ‘The Accelerator’ is both humbling and inspiring.

A breathtaking exploration of science, morality, and redemption. ‘The Accelerator’ will stay with you long after the credits roll.

About

From Creation to Disillusionment

The Accelerator chronicles the profound journey of Dr. Robert Wilson, a brilliant physicist whose work on the Manhattan Project led to the creation of the first atomic bomb. Witnessing the devastation wrought in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Wilson became disillusioned by the destructive power of his contributions.

A shift towards healing

In 1946, Dr Wilson wrote the seminal paper “Radiological Use of Fast Protons” for what would become Proton Therapy. His contribution marked a significant advancement in the fight against cancer.

The Accelerator explores his unwavering quest for knowledge about the natural world, seeking to uncover its mysteries and principles. In his words, “Creativity is a life-affirming activity that contributes to the precious quality of life; of the individual; of the nation; of all of us.

Screenings

Upcoming Screenings

April 8th, 2025 – Cornell Cinema – Ithaca, NY

April 28th, 2025 – National Association of Proton Therapy Conference – Philadelphia, PA

May 17th, 2025 – International Uranium Film Festival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Past Screenings

February 13th, 2025 — FermiLab — Batavia, IL

December 18th, 2024 — Homestake Opera House — Lead, SD

December 7th, 2024 — FermiLab — Batavia, IL

November 8th, 2024 — Round Top Film Festival — Round Top, TX

July 16th, 2024 — Flix Bruhouse — Oklahoma City, OK

June 8th, 2024 — deadCenter Film Festival — Oklahoma City, OK

Press Highlights

From atomic bomb to cancer treatments, film highlights life of first Fermilab director Screening to be held in Lead on Wednesday

Black Hills Pioneer —

May 9, 2024

A man who deeply regretted his involvement in developing technology for mass destruction, pledged his life to using that same technology to save lives, and went on to become the first director of Fermilab, is the subject of a major feature film, to be screened in Lead. Read More

Prairie Surf CEO, Film Director Discuss Manhattan Project Scientist Documentary ‘The Accelerator’

News 9 —

May 7, 2024

“The Accelerator,” a documentary discussing the life and career of Manhattan Project scientist Dr. Robert Wilson, was created by filmmakers at Prairie Surf Studios in Oklahoma City, and will debut this weekend as part of the 2024 deadCenter Film Festival. Read More

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you about screening the film, hosting a discussion, having an exhibition or any of your other interests or questions about The Accelerator.