Watch The Papers

The Papers is a historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg that tells the story of the Washington Post's decision to publish the Pentagon Papers, a classified report that revealed the United States government's lies to the American people during the Vietnam War. The movie is set in 1971 and stars Meryl Streep as Katharine Graham, the first female publisher of a major American newspaper, and Tom Hanks as Ben Bradlee, the executive editor of the Washington Post.

The film opens with Daniel Ellsberg, a former military analyst, copying thousands of pages of classified documents that detail the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War from 1945 to 1967. Ellsberg leaks the documents to the New York Times, but when the government threatens legal action against the newspaper, the Washington Post takes up the mantle of publishing the papers.

At the same time, the Washington Post is on the verge of going public, and Katharine Graham is struggling to assert her authority as the publisher of the paper. She inherited the position from her father, and many of her male colleagues doubt her ability to lead. Meanwhile, Bradlee is trying to convince Graham to publish the Pentagon Papers, even though it could potentially destroy the newspaper.

The tension between Graham and Bradlee is central to the film, as Graham wrestles with her own doubts and fears about how publishing the papers will affect the future of the Washington Post. Streep's performance is nuanced and powerful, conveying Graham's vulnerability and determination in equal measure. Hanks, as always, delivers a commanding performance as Bradlee, a journalist who is passionate about uncovering the truth.

The Papers is not just a historical drama; it is also a film about the role of the press in a democracy. The tension between the government's desire to keep the truth hidden and the press's determination to reveal it is a theme that resonates throughout the film. The movie is also a reminder of the power of print journalism, and the important role that newspapers have played in shaping American history.

The supporting cast of The Papers is excellent, with standout performances from Bob Odenkirk as Ben Bagdikian, a reporter who helps track down the Pentagon Papers, and Sarah Paulson as Bradlee's wife, Antoinette. The film's attention to detail is impressive, from the period costumes to the recreation of the Washington Post's newsroom.

The Papers is a timely film that feels remarkably relevant in today's political climate. The questions it raises about press freedom, government secrecy, and the importance of the truth are just as relevant now as they were in 1971. The movie is also a celebration of the power of journalism, and a tribute to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to uncovering the truth and holding those in power accountable.

In conclusion, The Papers is a powerful and thought-provoking film that tells an important story about the role of the press in American democracy. With outstanding performances from its lead actors and a strong supporting cast, the movie is a must-see for anyone who cares about the truth and the power of print journalism. Spielberg has done a masterful job of bringing this story to the screen, and the result is a film that is both timely and timeless.