The Post- Review

Meryl Does it Again!

Once again Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks work does not disappoint. These two Hollywood stars have done a huge variety of work over the years. From Comedy to Heartbreaking drama the public seems to greet these actors work with positive feedback. Teaming up with 3 time Oscar winner Steven Spielberg – they might have a hit on their hands.

For me… Meryl can do no wrong.

But lets get back to the movie!

(SPOILERS INVOLVED)

 

Synopsis

The Post is a biopic drama involving the Washington Post newspaper in the early 1970s. When top secret government documents, suggesting dirty work and cover ups by 4 presidents including the current Richard Nixon, are uncovered. It would appear the Vietnam war was never going to be successful and 60,000 lost-in-action Americans was due to relentless politicians not admitting defeat.  The paper faced a political dilemma, do they print the story or not?

Streep plays “Kay Graham”, the first woman publisher in America who must decide the fate of her family run newspaper with hot headed editor “Ben Bradlee” played by Hanks.

 

Good enough to post about?

With Spielberg at the reigns, the film had a lot to live up to. Due to the bio-drama nature, the film needed to stick to the truth as well as ensuring the entertainment factor.

The film began with the background of the confidential documents which created the suspense and stakes of the Vietnam war. The 7,000 page report, written by the JFK reign, was intended to be a history study in later life however was revealed when the war was still ongoing.

Meryl channels the naivety and pressure of becoming the publisher of the newspaper, a role that she did not want but due to the death of her husband was given. A recurring theme in the movie is the discrimination of woman and sexist approach many of the politicians and newspaper directors have towards Graham. An appropriate topic considering almost 50 years have past and yet woman still have this problems in the workplace.

Another relatable theme is the “Fake news” epidemic which is flooded over papers and media over the past 10 years. The Post brings the notion of “Freedom of Speech” for the journalists into a positive light. The outcome of the movie is exactly what the media should be doing, providing the public with the truth.

With a rather slow start to the movie, the intensity as the papers come to light is fantastic and well timed. The suspense in the courtroom and newsroom, waiting for the results of the high court, is encouraged by the amazing music written by John Williams. This is the man behind iconic music in:

• Jaws
• Star Wars
• Jurassic Park
• Indiana Jones
• Home Alone.

Led by Hanks and Streep, the fantastic cast strengthens the story and overall provides the audience with an insight into the moral dilemma which shaped American Journalism.

My rating: ****