Film Overview"Truth" is a 2015 drama-thriller movie directed and produced by James Vanderbilt, in his directorial debut. The movie, based on news manufacturer Mary Mapes' narrative "Truth and Duty: The Press, the President, and the Privilege of Power", checks out the questionable Killian files investigation by CBS News. The film includes a strong cast including Cate Blanchett as Mapes, Robert Redford as Dan Rather, Topher Grace, Elisabeth Moss, and Dennis Quaid.
Story"Truth" informs the story of the CBS's investigation into then-president George W. Bush's military service. The film starts in 2004 when Mary Mapes, a manufacturer for CBS' 60 Minutes, together with news anchor Dan Rather, starts a deep investigation into the military service history of President Bush. They air a segment declaring Bush might have used household connections to avoid serving in the Vietnam War by being stationed with the Texas Air National Guard.
Things turn sour when it becomes apparent that some of the documents they utilized to back their report are possibly created. Quickly after the broadcast, the credibility of the documents is questioned, sparking a firestorm of controversy and criticism.
Criticism and FalloutCritics lambasted CBS, implicating them of a prejudiced report versus Bush who was, at that time, running for his 2nd term as president. The debate ends up being a media scandal, later on described as "Rathergate". The fallout triggers an internal examination at CBS, led by an independent panel.
CBS fires Mapes and a number of other secret individuals in the 60 Minutes report. Dan Rather steps down early from his position as CBS Evening News anchor, ending a career spanning 24 years.
Styles and Reception"Truth" is as much about journalism ethics as about the rise of new media and political predisposition in network tv. It explores the human story behind a monumental news story, providing a close look at the reporters who got caught in the crossfire of reporting truth and their struggle to maintain their reputitions in the face of installing public and internal pressures.
The film garnered blended reviews. Critics praised Blanchett and Redford for their efficiencies, but had mixed sensations about the film's interpretation of the historic events, some keeping in mind an over-sympathetic depiction of Mapes and Rather. Blanchett was nominated for numerous awards for her function as Mapes.
In conclusion, "Truth" is a thought-provoking film that revisits a substantial and controversial moment in broadcast journalism. It presents a nuanced view of the obstacles faced by the media when trying to expose effective people, and the possible repercussions.
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