The fact that ‘The Post’ is classified as an ‘historical
drama’ is amazing and more so for those who lived through the period
depicted. The 1970’s wasn’t that long ago but apparently it is for a slew
of film-makers who have plundered the decade for stories. Having made his
career during that time, director Steven Spielberg would know much about how
the period affected people. Maybe that’s why ‘The Post’ works as it has an
authenticity making it one of the most compelling films in the huge Spielberg
cinematic catalogue.
Ben Bradlee (Tom Hanks) is an editor for ‘The Washington
Post’ newspaper. It’s 1971 with America in the midst of the era of
President Richard Nixon. When confidential government dossiers dubbed
‘The Pentagon Papers’ are leaked, a crisis ensues. Detailing government
cover-ups and lies during the Vietnam War, Bradlee seeks the support of the
paper’s owner Kay Graham (Meryl Streep). Uniting to take on the
government and publish the documents, war between politicians and the paper
escalates with truth caught unwittingly in the middle.
In a current age of ‘fake news’, ‘The Post’ is a breath of
fresh air. That may seem odd saying that about a story exploring an
increasingly antiquated method of making and gathering news. But it works
due to the integrity of its characters. Based on real people, you feel
their pride in delivering the truth and doing anything to ensure those involved
are protected. It also shines a light on equality with Graham a pioneering
female newspaper owner willing to risk it all in a world dominated by male
egos.
Not much extra can be said of Hanks and Streep as they
provide their usual fantastic performances. Their co-stars are equally
fine as real journalists who would have baulked at today’s often shonky ways of
obtaining news. The courage of their convictions is starkly seen with
passion in crafting quality news. The period detail and score are first
rate with Spielberg taking his time to tell the story in an agreeably
old-fashioned drama without the negative connotations associated with the term.
Steven Spielberg hasn’t lost his touch as ‘The Post’ is one
of the best of his recent works. A powerful statement in freedom of the
press and the high standards it can reach, it’s something many current journalists
should live by. It may examine a period of history long gone but its
lessons are still important where truth and fiction are often blurred.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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