Spielberg, Steep, and Hanks combine for a film that is both impressive and essential viewing
timing: the choice, judgment, or control of when something should be done
With The Post, the word timing resonates on two levels. First, it’s tale of journalists striving to ensure the truth reaches the public, delivering unto them facts upon which to base their judgement of their government. Secondly, it’s release during the turbulent times, when the freedoms of the press, and indeed individuals, seem so undermined or flat out imperiled. The Post is a timely tale, one delivered by the deft hand of maestro Steven Spielberg, drawing from resonant source material, as well as the talents of two of America’s finest in Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep. The result is the bearded ones best film in years.
Synopsis:
OSCAR ® winners Steven Spielberg, Meryl Streep, and Tom Hanks team up for the first time in this thrilling film based on a true story. Determined to uphold the nation’s civil liberties, Katharine Graham (Streep), publisher of The Washington Post, and hard-nosed editor Ben Bradlee (Hanks) join forces to expose a decades-long cover-up. But the two must risk their careers — and their freedom — to bring truth to light in this powerful film with a celebrated cast.
The crux of the story concerns these uncovered documents, first unearthed by the NYT, who are subsequently locked by the Nixon Administration from sharing them. Over 20 years worth of material that proves how over multiple administrations, the US government has been lying about the true nature, and costs, of the Vietnam war. Where The Post comes in, is in securing the materials and being in a position to decide whether to, hold back the story or risk legal fallout by continuing the work started by the NYT. What makes the film all the more resonant in our current age is how it tilts the focus, encompassing not just the publishing of the Pentagon Papers but taking in the ascension and travails of Katharine Graham, who took over as publisher of the Washington Post after the death of her husband shortly before the film begins. The challenges facing a woman in a male-dominated industry, compounding her own hesitation, and lack of confidence in her own abilities.
With this approach, we’re hitting two crucial topics of our age. The fight for truth, and against undermining the press with cries of fake news. And secondly, the growth of the ‘me too’ movement, against sexual assault, and pertinently here, the abuse of women by men in power, and their efforts to keep women subjugated positions. Graham’s journey, brilliant realized by Streep, is one you’ll cheer for as much as the felling of government corruption.
What’s been made here is a companion piece to All The President’s Men. Writers Liz Hannah and Josh Singer deftly lay out the past, present, and future possibilities that come from the publication of these documents. Spielberg captures the crackling energy of the newsroom, with the pursuit of the truth reflected in the movement of the camera. The scale of what has happened is clear, even though the focus is on these individuals in a newsroom. Spielberg balances their precise, methodical nature, with a sense of urgency, as well as his clear reverence for history, the media, and how entwined they are. Sure it’s a little on the nose at times, but with the messages being so pressing today, you can forgive him for it.
Thanks to impeccable production and costume design, the film captures the 70s era perfectly, aided by a marvellous score by John Williams, with added depth and texture coming from a brilliant cast, in every role no matter how small. Bob Odenkirk (where was his awards buzz people?), Tracy Letts, Bradley Whitford, Jesse Plemons, Sarah Paulson, Carrie Coon, David Cross and more, all excel. For Streep, it’s her best work in years, a deftly realized portrayal of this woman’s growth and realization, while mired in personal and professional conflict. As the paper’s executive editor Ben Bradlee, you get the sense that Tom Hanks keeps a distance, knowing this is a film with a female lead, but nonetheless he delivers, working as an effective foil and supporting partner to Streep’s Graham. Their contributions underscore how much of a team effort this was. The Post often feels like watching a football (soccer) team exchanging passes, moving towards the goal. It gives it energy and urgency, and you can’t help but cheer when they put it in the back of the net.
The Package
The film embraces the 70’s aesthetic, and that sense of authenticity extends to the picture quality too. There is a subtle grain in play that feels very apt, aside from this a cool palette is presented. It’s a beautiful looking film and this transfer showcases that, as well as maintains it’s identity and integrity. The release is brimming with special features:
· Layout: Katharine Graham, Ben Bradlee & The Washington Post: Get to know the brave real-life characters at the heart of this story, Kay Graham and Ben Bradlee, who risked everything to tell the truth.
· Editorial: The Cast and Characters of The Post : Learn how, once Steven Spielberg, Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks agreed to make this important film, other world-class actors also signed on!
· The Style Section: Re-Creating an Era: Visit the 1970s and the Washington Post newsroom in this engaging exploration of how the style of The Pentagon Papers era was created.
· Stop the Presses: Filming The Post: You’re invited onto the set with Steven Spielberg, his collaborators and his cast as they meticulously craft each cinematic moment.
· Arts and Entertainment: Music for The Post: Steven Spielberg and composer John Williams celebrate their 44-year partnership in this moving tribute to collaboration and friendship.
With period pieces of this type, it’s always welcome to see extras that delve into the facts a little more. What’s on the disc certainly does that, deepening appreciation for both the teams at these newspapers, as well as all those who worked to bring their story to the big screen. A very nice package overall.
The Bottom Line
The Post features three of the top talents in American cinema bringing their A-game to a film that is as polished as it is resonant. A film you appreciate for the craft of all involved, as well as it’s message. That strength and change comes from individuals who do the right thing, and hold those who don’t accountable. Resist.
The Post is available on on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD from April 17th