‘Scoop’ by Hansal Mehta and Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul being streamed on Netflix is all about the shocking murder of a journalist thrusts a crime reporter into the nexus of police, media and the Mumbai underworld as she fights for justice.
Journalism has long been a captivating subject for filmmakers, with its inherent drama, conflicts, and the pursuit of truth. Here are seven of the best films that delve into the world of journalism, showcasing its triumphs, challenges, and the impact it has on society:
If you have enjoyed watching ‘Scoop’, you must try these movies as well available on various platforms.
1. ‘All the President’s Men’ (1976): Directed by Alan J Pakula, this iconic film follows the investigation of journalists Bob Woodward (played by Robert Redford) and Carl Bernstein (played by Dustin Hoffman) as they uncover the Watergate scandal. With exceptional performances and a gripping narrative, it showcases the power of investigative journalism in bringing down a corrupt administration.
2. ‘Spotlight’ (2015): Directed by Tom McCarthy, ‘Spotlight’ tells the true story of the Boston Globe’s Spotlight team as they expose systemic child abuse within the Catholic Church. This riveting film explores the dedication of investigative journalists as they navigate the intricate web of secrecy and cover-ups, ultimately shining a light on a deeply entrenched scandal.
3. ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’ (2005): Directed by George Clooney, this black-and-white drama explores the real-life battle between newsman Edward R Murrow (played by David Strathairn) and Senator Joseph McCarthy during the 1950s Red Scare. The film portrays the moral courage of journalists who risked their careers to challenge McCarthy’s unfounded accusations, highlighting the importance of responsible journalism and free speech.
4. ‘Zodiac’ (2007): Directed by David Fincher, ‘Zodiac’ is a gripping thriller based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, who terrorized San Francisco in the late 1960s. The film follows the relentless pursuit of truth by journalist Robert Graysmith (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) and others as they become consumed by the case, blurring the lines between obsession and professional duty.
5. ‘The Post’ (2017): Directed by Steven Spielberg, ‘The Post’ revolves around the publication of the Pentagon Papers by The Washington Post. Meryl Streep portrays publisher Katharine Graham, while Tom Hanks plays editor Ben Bradlee. This historical drama highlights the tense decisions faced by journalists as they risk their reputations and confront government pressure to reveal classified information.
6. ‘Frost/Nixon’ (2008): Directed by Ron Howard, ‘Frost/Nixon’ depicts the series of interviews between British talk-show host David Frost (played by Michael Sheen) and former President Richard Nixon (played by Frank Langella) after Nixon’s resignation. The film showcases the power of the media in holding leaders accountable and explores the intense battle for truth and redemption through the lens of journalism.
7. ‘Network’ (1976): Directed by Sidney Lumet, ‘Network’ satirizes the influence of media on society. The film tells the story of news anchor Howard Beale (played by Peter Finch), whose on-air breakdown and subsequent diatribes against societal issues captivate viewers. It sheds light on the blurred lines between news and entertainment, emphasizing the power of the media to shape public opinion.
These films represent a diverse range of stories, genres, and historical periods, all united by their exploration of journalism’s impact on society. Through captivating performances and thought-provoking narratives, they remind us of the importance of a free press, the pursuit of truth, and the profound influence that journalism holds in shaping our collective consciousness.
