Director: Alan J.Pakula
Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford
The film is based on real events revolving around the resignation of President Nixon, the Watergate scandal, and what reporters Bob Woodward (Robert Redford) and Carl Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman) dutifully uncover as they seek the truth behind this scandal. Based on the book written by the real reporters on their experiences covering this scandal for their newspaper, it was adapted for the screen by William Goldman.
If you are unfamiliar with American modern history, it will be a task to follow the story, and you may have to watch it a second time to grasp the complete context of the incidents that take place on screen. The script moves through breakneck speed, and while wanting to follow the story in detail, it will be difficult to overlook the charisma of both the lead actors, who deliver classy and restrained performances. It is an absolute delight to watch both Redford and Hoffman work together on screen in perfect harmony, with great dialogue delivery and body language. It is easy to see why these two actors are known as two of the finest actors in Hollywood. It is a shame that were not acknowledged by the Academy for that year’s top honours.
With no sub plot to annoy the viewers, the scenes are well etched out by the screenwriter, and the cinematography travels with the script beautifully without any shots out of place. The fine interactions between the two reporters, their editors and their sources are all reflection of the intense and vivid vision of the director. Even if you have no interest in a scandal by an American President, this well written and well performed film is almost flawless and a brilliant directorial venture that will keep you on the edge of your seats from the word go till the end titles roll.
There are no hidden messages, no points to ponder about, and no morals to reflect on in this film. It is a straightforward account of what happened to President Nixon and why he resigned. And this is why this film can be easily classified as one of the best films of all time – it is honest, it is bold, it is dynamite, and has depth. The movie is not traditionally mysterious, because those who are familiar with the Watergate scandal will know where the film is going. But with the intelligent writing and the tension that leads from one event to the other, and with dynamic revelations, you will be rooting for both the journalists and their safety.
The finest details that the director looks into is what makes the film even more interesting – the typing style of Redford, Hoffman’s smoking habit, the untidy apartments, their dressing, their typical unkempt look as investigative journalists.
This film is a must watch for every print journalist and movie buff. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director, and won four for Adapted Screenplay, Art Direction, Sound and Actor in a supporting role.
Swarupa Pillaai
