Starring: Cate Blanchett, Robert Redford, Dennis Quaid, Topher Grace, Bruce Greenwood
Truth
Director: James Vanderbilt
Rating: 4/5
We have already been treated to some terrific biopic dramas so far this year, and this week Truth hits the big screen. The movie is based on the book by Mary Mapes and sees James Vanderbilt make his feature film directorial debut.
The film chronicles the story Mapes and Rather (Blanchett & Redford) uncovered that a sitting US president may have been AWOL from the United States National Guard for over a year during the Vietnam War. When the story blew up in their face, the ensuing scandal ruined Dan Rather's career, nearly changed a US Presidential election, and almost took down all of CBS News in the process.
I have to admit, I was expecting a lot when I sat down to watch Truth and, while it is a solid film with a lot to like and enjoy, it doesn't quite hit the dizzy heights that I was expecting.
This is a fascinating film about political corruption and the media outlets that report on it and are brave enough to try and get to the truth. I Have always been a fan of the investigative journalism movie - of which we have been treated to many over the years - and Truth is packed with twists and turns as well as interesting characters.
For me, it is Cate Blanchett that truly shines in the central role of producer Mary Mapes, a woman who was ready to take on the establishment but was silenced by those in power.
Blanchett strikes the perfect balance of Mapes being perfectly normal and yet heroic all at the same time. She is a woman who takes very seriously the role of the press as watchdogs and is willing to lay it all the line to undercover the truth. She really is the backbone as well as the heart and soul of this film; she is magnificent from start to finish and you are rooting for her from the beginning.
Robert Redford is also terrific as new anchor Dan Rather in what is quite a restrained performance from the actor, who is no stranger to this genre of film with All The President's Men already under his belt.
Blanchett and Redford light up the screen when they share scenes together and I would love to see these two fine actors work together again in the future. They really are two of the best in the business and I love it when they get roles to truly get their teeth into.
Truth isn't quite in the same league as All The President's Men or the more recent Spotlight, but it is a fascinating and compelling film that is as informative as it is entertaining.
Truth is out now.
Tagged in Cate Blanchett