After the release of Steven Spielberg's latest sci-fi thriller, 'Disclosure Day', many are left wondering which of his films best complements this new offering. While the movie itself is an exciting and thought-provoking watch, it's not the alien encounter that should be on your radar post-viewing. Instead, I argue that the one Spielberg film you should revisit is 'The Post'.
'The Post' is a 2017 drama that delves into the world of journalism and the power of the press. It follows the story of Katharine Graham, the publisher of the Washington Post, and her team's efforts to publish the Pentagon Papers in 1971. This film is not just about the act of publishing, but also about the importance of freedom of the press and the right to access information.
What makes 'The Post' so compelling is its relevance to 'Disclosure Day'. Both films explore the ethics of disclosing privileged and classified information. In 'Disclosure Day', the dilemma revolves around whether information about aliens should be revealed to the public. In 'The Post', the tension is between the desire to publish the truth and the potential consequences of that truth. The question of whether public opinion or the truth is more important is a central theme in both films.
'The Post' also highlights the power of the press in holding those in power accountable. It shows how the Washington Post, under the leadership of Katharine Graham and Ben Bradlee, was able to challenge the government's corruption and the reasons for the Vietnam War. This is a powerful message that resonates with the themes of 'Disclosure Day'.
Furthermore, 'The Post' is a testament to Spielberg's ability to tackle complex and timely issues. The film was released early in Trump's first term, and its message about the importance of truth and the right to access information was particularly poignant. 'Disclosure Day' shares this sense of urgency and the importance of truth, even if it's not about the government or politics.
In my opinion, 'The Post' is not just a great film, but also a crucial companion to 'Disclosure Day'. It's a reminder of the power of the press and the importance of truth, and it's a film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
