The name Ted Kaczynski is widely known, but his story holds far more complexity than many realize.
The new film University Bomber (titled UNABOM) chronicles the harrowing story of the “University Bomber,” a notorious figure who terrorized the United States with bomb attacks spanning nearly two decades. Rising star Jacob Tremblay portrays the young Ted Kaczynski, while Russell Crowe takes on the role of a controversial Harvard professor.
“University Bomber explores how a young man’s growing sense of alienation and disenfranchisement led him down a violent path of revenge,” director Janus Metz told Tudum. “The narrative unfolds through two interwoven timelines—depicting both the rise of the bomber and his eventual capture.”
Directed by Janus Metz, known for Borg vs. McEnroe and The Old Man & the Gun, and scripted by Sam Chalsen and Neilson Graves (writers behind the TV series Sleepy Hollow), the film is produced jointly by 2.0 Entertainment, represented by Sophie Cassidy, and MRC. Executive producers include Don Lee, Sam Chalsen, and Neilson Graves. More details follow below.
What Is UNABOM About?
University Bomber is based on true events, tracing Ted Kaczynski’s transformation from a Harvard mathematical prodigy to the infamous university bomber. Under the guidance of Professor Henry Murray—portrayed by Russell Crowe—Kaczynski underwent controversial psychological experiments. The film also follows FBI agent Joanne Miller (played by Shailene Woodley) as she leads the lengthy manhunt that exposes Kaczynski’s troubling past and reveals the dangerous consequences of ambition combined with isolation.
“Tracking the University Bomber was the FBI’s longest and most expensive case to date, which fascinated me,” Metz said. “But what truly captivated me was Kaczynski’s experience as a Harvard math student. That’s a side of the story I hadn’t known before, and it helps uncover a very dark chapter in American history.”
What Does UNABOM Mean?
The film’s title and the bomber’s nickname come from the FBI case code: UNABOM, short for “University and Airline Bomber,” referencing the scope of Kaczynski’s attacks.
Who Stars in UNABOM?
The main cast includes:
Jacob Tremblay (The Monarch, Room) as young Ted Kaczynski
Russell Crowe (Gladiator) as Henry Murray, Kaczynski’s Harvard psychology professor
Shailene Woodley (The Descendants, Divergent) as FBI agent Joanne Miller, the lead investigator on the case
Annabelle Wallis (Peaky Blinders, Malignant) as Christianna Morgan, Murray’s academic partner and co-director of the Harvard psychology clinic
“Jacob Tremblay is an exceptionally talented young actor,” said director Metz. “His sensitivity perfectly matches the image of Ted Kaczynski as a Harvard student. Jacob’s appearance and his portrayal capture the vulnerability and intelligence that this story demands. After our first conversation, I was convinced he was the right choice. It is a great honor to work with him on this role and delve deeply into the character.”
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