Action Films About Journalists: A Thrilling Collection

Description: Set in Indonesia during the attempted coup of 1965, this film follows an Australian journalist navigating political turmoil and personal relationships, highlighting the dangers of foreign correspondence.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia until 1999 due to its depiction of the political events.

Description: This film captures the harrowing experiences of two journalists, one American and one Cambodian, during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. It's a poignant tale of friendship, survival, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Thailand and Cambodia, and it won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Haing S. Ngor, who himself survived the Khmer Rouge.

Description: Oliver Stone's intense drama follows a photojournalist who travels to El Salvador during its civil war, capturing the chaos and corruption. It's a gritty look at the dangers journalists face in conflict zones.

Fact: James Woods, who plays the lead, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance.

Description: This film delves into the true story of a tobacco industry whistleblower and the 60 Minutes producer who fights to air his story, showcasing the ethical dilemmas and pressures journalists face.

Fact: Al Pacino and Russell Crowe both received Academy Award nominations for their performances in this film.

Description: Based on the true story of journalist Stephen Glass, who fabricated stories for The New Republic, this film explores the ethical boundaries of journalism and the fallout when those boundaries are crossed.

Fact: Hayden Christensen's performance as Glass was critically acclaimed, earning him several award nominations.

Description: A gripping political thriller where a journalist investigates the suspicious death of a congressman's aide, uncovering a web of conspiracy. It's a modern take on journalism's role in uncovering political scandals.

Fact: The film is based on a British TV series of the same name, and Russell Crowe's character was originally played by John Simm in the series.

Description: This film tells the story of journalist Gary Webb, who uncovered the CIA's role in drug trafficking, facing intense pressure and threats as he tries to expose the truth.

Fact: The film is based on Webb's book "Dark Alliance," and Jeremy Renner's portrayal of Webb was praised for its authenticity.

Description: Jake Gyllenhaal stars as a freelance crime journalist who goes to extreme lengths to capture shocking footage for local news, exploring the dark side of sensationalism in journalism.

Fact: Gyllenhaal lost nearly 30 pounds for the role to portray the character's gaunt appearance.

Description: A historical drama about the Pentagon Papers, focusing on the decisions made by The Washington Post's editor and publisher to publish the classified documents, showcasing the power of the press.

Fact: Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks both received Golden Globe nominations for their roles.

Description: Set during the last days of the Somoza regime in Nicaragua, this film follows a photojournalist who becomes embroiled in the revolution, blurring the lines between observer and participant.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events, and the character of Russell Price was loosely based on the life of photojournalist Bill Stewart, who was killed in Nicaragua.