In light of the recent Pulitzer Prize announcements, it seems apt to reflect on how the world of journalism has been represented in Hollywood. Movies often provide a public window into the hidden world of newsrooms, and these portrayals can shape perceptions around the responsibilities and influence of the press. As someone who has been in journalism for almost four decades and a film enthusiast for over half a century, I present my picks for the leading 10 movies about journalism. There will also be a few commendations for select distinguished films.
In tenth place, there is ‘Shock and Awe’ (2017). This movie might not register in everyone’s memory, yet it documents a crucial exposé. The plot explores investigative journalism surrounding the misrepresentation of the situation in Iraq leading to the 2003 US invasion. The protagonists are Jonathan Landay and Warren Strobel, actual Knight Ridder Washington Bureau journalists who dared to question the authenticity of mainstream news, and were subsequently proven correct. They are played by Woody Harrelson and James Marsden.
In the number nine position is a recent movie titled ‘She Said’ (2022). Based on the renowned investigation by Jodi Kantor and Megna Twohey of The New York Times into Harvey Weinstein’s sexual misconduct case, the film shines a spotlight on the seldom represented domain of female journalists.
The classic ‘Meet John Doe’ (1941) ranks eighth. This film by Frank Capra displays both the good and bad of the press as it looks at how media coverage can be deployed for social benefits, but also manipulated for personal gain.
Orson Welles’ iconic ‘Citizen Kane’ (1941) assumes the seventh place. The film, based loosely on the life and career of powerful media figure William Randolph Hearst, is a rigorous narrative about news industry politics through the eyes of an ambitious newspaper owner.
Sixth place goes to the 1940’s comedy-drama, ‘His Girl Friday’. Among the frequently adapted scripts, this film depicts the hectic life inside a newsroom, focusing on a determined editor and his competent ex-wife who also happens to be a talented reporter.
In the fifth spot, we have ‘The Sweet Smell of Success’ (1957). This film unveils the dark, power-thirsty side of journalism through the character J.J. Hunsecker, a fictional gossip columnist at the made-up New York Globe, embodied by Burt Lancaster.
Fourth on the list is ‘Network’ (1976). Centering around Howard Beale, a network news anchor during the media’s golden era, this film showcases what happens when driven by ratings, a faltering network goes to extreme lengths for gaining viewership.
‘Absence of Malice’ (1981) is in third place and provides poignant commentary about the consequences that can ensue when ethical guidelines in journalism are compromised.
Second spot on the list is held by ‘Spotlight’ (2015). As a personal favourite, this movie true to its title, spotlights the instrumental work by the Boston Globe’s investigative team in uncovering the child abuse scandal involving priests, thus opening a Pandora’s box.
In the number one spot is ‘All the President’s Men’ (1976). Representing the pinnacle of investigative journalism films, this seminal classic portrays the systematic unraveling of the Watergate scandal which ultimately led to the downfall of President Nixon.
There are a few films deserving honorable mentions as well. ‘The Mean Season’ (1985) follows the career of a journalist revitalized by the confessions of a serial killer which become a nightmare when he ends up on the killer’s radar.
‘The Paper’ (1994) provides a thrilling insight into the tabloid wars in New York during the 80s and 90s, documenting the story of the Sun newspaper, showing its rise and eventual decline over the years.
‘The Post’ (2017) sets itself a year before the infamous Watergate scandal and highlights The Washington Post’s challenge to publish the controversial Pentagon Papers.
‘Broadcast News’ (1987) blends drama and romantic comedy with a sprinkle of journalism. Although not a conventional journalism film, it does touch upon important journalistic concerns such as sensationalism, authenticity, and the competition between appearance-driven anchors and seasoned reporters.