Crime Films About Investigative Journalism

Description: This classic film follows Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein as they uncover the Watergate scandal, leading to President Nixon's resignation. It's a masterclass in how journalism can hold the powerful accountable.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual Washington Post newsroom, and the real Woodward and Bernstein made cameo appearances.

Description: This film captures a day in the life of a New York City tabloid newspaper, focusing on the ethical and personal challenges faced by its staff. It's a fast-paced look at the daily grind of journalism.

Fact: The film was directed by Ron Howard, who himself was a former child actor and has a deep understanding of the media industry.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a 60 Minutes producer and a former tobacco executive as they expose the tobacco industry's knowledge of the dangers of smoking. It's a tense exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists.

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

Description: This biographical film portrays the life of Irish journalist Veronica Guerin, who was assassinated for her investigative work on drug lords in Dublin. It's a poignant reminder of the risks journalists take for the truth.

Fact: Cate Blanchett, who plays Guerin, learned to speak with an Irish accent for the role.

Description: This film tells the story of Stephen Glass, a young journalist at The New Republic, whose fabrications were eventually exposed. It's a cautionary tale about the integrity of journalism.

Fact: The film was shot in Montreal, standing in for Washington, D.C., where the real events took place.

Description: A journalist investigates the death of a congressman's aide, uncovering a web of conspiracy involving corporate greed and political corruption. It's a thrilling ride through the murky waters of journalism and politics.

Fact: The film was adapted from a British TV series of the same name, which itself was inspired by real-life events.

Description: Based on the true story of journalist Gary Webb, who uncovered the CIA's role in the crack cocaine epidemic in the U.S. It's a gripping tale of a journalist's fight for truth against powerful forces.

Fact: The film's title is a reference to a line from the book "Dark Alliance" by Gary Webb, which inspired the movie.

Description: This film chronicles the true story of the Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team, whose investigation into child molestation by Catholic priests led to one of the biggest scandals in the history of the Catholic Church. It's a testament to the power of investigative journalism to bring about change.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual Boston Globe newsroom, and the real-life journalists portrayed in the movie served as consultants.

Description: While not strictly about investigative journalism, this film explores the dark side of freelance crime journalism, where the protagonist goes to extreme lengths to capture sensational footage. It's a chilling look at media ethics.

Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost 30 pounds for his role, and the film was shot in Los Angeles, capturing the city's underbelly at night.

Description: Set during the early 1970s, this film depicts the Washington Post's decision to publish the Pentagon Papers, revealing government secrets about the Vietnam War. It's a riveting look at the clash between press freedom and national security.

Fact: Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, who play Katharine Graham and Ben Bradlee respectively, had never worked together before this film.