Our Friend the Atom (television) Television show; aired on January 23, 1957. Directed by Hamilton S. Luske. Dr. Heinz Haber looks at the atom as a potential power source, stressing that strict controls are necessary. He traces the history of the atom from the tale of “The Fisherman and the Genie” through the days of the ancient Greek philosophers to the discoveries of modern scientists. The film uses excerpts from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea as well as new animation sequences. A popular book version of this show by Dr. Haber was published by Golden Press. In 1980, an updated version was produced as an educational film entitled The Atom: A Closer Look.