The Post

Rebecca Varidel
9th Jan 2018

This is BIG. It's a big story. With big acting - perhaps even career bests from both Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep. Although The Post is outwardly a film about politics there are many more layers, this is a must see film for any thinking adult. It's both as relevant today as it is as an historical true account of a pivotal point in time. And in its own way, the latest Steven Spielberg blockbuster.

The opening scenes are of war, The Vietnam War. Then it moves first to a top secret report through numerous U.S. administrations, and then to the newsroom.
 
The Post refers to The Washington Post, at the time of the movie, a small family owned 'local' paper.
 
I'm personally not inclined to the political, to be truthful. Yet this big piece, this statement of agendas offers so much more, it had me relentlessly sitting on the edge of my seat, captivated by its capture of the moment, and the era.
 
Original music by John Williams pinpoints the faultless flow of editing and cinematography through highs and lows. Footage of news room phones and pencils, and ink print run contrasts with lavish entertaining and commentary on the place of women.
 
Which is where Meryl Street brilliantly shines, as she captures every nuance of nervousness before she finally steps into her own. Likewise, every guesture, every word, every glance and intonation, finds Tom Hanks embrace his character.
 
Both are so strong in their roles that you forget they are big name actors. It's hard to find an Achilles heel here, although I did debate whether the final moments did the movie justice.
 
The power of politicians, the rights of the people, the freedom of the press: history has already dictated. If you don't know the outcome of events, if you are of like me of a different generation, or not all that politically inclined, this is still must see viewing. Like I said. This is BIG!

The Post opens in Australian cinemas on Thursday January 11th.