The Report (2019)

The title of this movie refers to the report compiled by the US Senate Intelligence Committee on the use of torture (“enhanced interrogation techniques”) on detainees in CIA custody as part of the “War on Terror”.  The movie tells the astonishing story of how this incredible and disturbing report came about, and how it almost never saw the light of day.

While the key aspects of the so-called “torture program” are widely known, there is a lot of stuff that is a lot less known.  The movie does a splendid job of shining light on some of these aspects.  For instance, the shockingly flimsy “research” that led to the use of techniques such as waterboarding.  The movie also presents in some detail, the scary way in which some in the CIA tried to discredit the lead investigator behind the report.  Along the way, it gives you other facts to think about.  Consider this: in preparing the report, the investigative team reviewed more than 6 million pages of documents, emails, and cables.

But this isn’t just an important movie: it is powerful, gripping and thrilling.  That is all the more remarkable given that the material is inherently uncinematic.  In large part, credit is due to the manner in which the narrative is presented as well as the solid performances from the star-studded cast, especially Adam Driver, who gives a powerhouse turn as the lead investigator.

Here’s a link to a trailer.

Here’s a link to a companion video that highlights some statistics related to the report.

Here’s a link to a well-researched piece that examines the factual accuracy of the movie.