Journalism is alive

Spotlight
English (A), Cast: Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Mark Ruffalo,  Liev Schreiber, Stanley Tucci, John Slattery, Brian d'Arcy James
Director: Tom McCarthy

“Spotlight” is based on the true story of how the Boston Globe exposed the massive child molestation scandal and cover-up by the Catholic church in the United States through its team of dedicated investigative reporters.

In 2001, to get the newspaper become relevant again in view of falling readership, new editor-in-chief Marty (Liev Schreiber) assigned to Spotlight — a team of investigative journalists which include Walter (Michael Keaton), Michael (Ruffalo), Sacha (McAdams) and Matty (Brian d'Arcy James) — to follow up allegations of systematic sexual abuse by the church. And, with the church having a big influence in Boston, the reporters have to overcome not just professional challenges, but are also dragged to question their faith.

The thought-provoking suspense drama comes alive not because of the story about the abuse by the church, but the way the journalists conduct themselves to expose a scandal what many thought was impossible to do. With a strong script and fine storytelling, watching “Spotlight” feels like an endless journey into classic cinema wherein the subject matter is taken up with extreme care without compromising on truth.

At a time when journalism is under scrutiny from various quarters, “Spotlight” is a must-watch for journalists to have a re-look at what their job is really about. With religion, nationalism and business interests often marring professional ethics, this movie is an opportunity to take a back seat and do some soul-searching.