Review - Nothing But the Truth

A Washington DC journalist writes an controversial article that explodes in a whirlwind of media and judical ramifications. The explosive article reveals a covert CIA agent that was involved in a government scandal. The reporter is demanded to reveal her source by a special government prosecutor and when she doesn't the journalist finds herself behind bars trying to defend the principles she based her career on.


Written and directed by Rod Lurie (The Last Castle) "Nothing But the Truth" is a intriguing story that focuses on, just how far we are willing to go to defend our principles. Lurie uses today's politically charged environment as the backdrop to the 1st Amendment story, highlighting our heightened state of national security within the U.S.. "Nothing But the Truth" allows the viewer to gauge their own judgement of the situation and furthermore, does a remarkable job of illustrating, how quickly the U.S. government will work in matters of National Security. The performances throughout "Nothing But the Truth" help drive home the raw emotions of the film and ultimately leave the viewer questioning their own ideals on the principles presented.

Kate Beckinsale delivers a convincing performance as Rachel Armstrong, the Washington Sun reporter, who is imprisoned for refusing to reveal her source to government officials. The conviction Beckinsale portrays as Rachel never waivers and propells her character in a endearing dramatic fashion that is sure to engage.

Alan Alda stuns as Rachel's lawyer Alan Burnside, and delivers one of the films most thought provoking and touching moments on the fundamental values of the U.S. Constitution's 1st Amendment right in his supporting role. Matt Dillon is equally impressive as Patton DuBois, the determined government lawyer, who is hellbent on finding and imposing justice on Rachel Armstrong's source. Dillon's scenes with both Alda and Beckisale are a sight to behold and resurrect the tense mood his domineering character drips of. The last performance of note, comes from Vera Farmiga playing the distraught Erica Van Doren, the outed CIA operative.

At the very least, "Nothing But the Truth" is a film that focuses on our convictions and principles, but it is so much more than that. The 108 minute film takes a hard look at the 1st Amendment and just how far our rights can be stretched under the guise of National Security. "Nothing But the Truth" makes it's 1st Amendment stance very clear, however the film leaves open the door of debate, so that viewers may engage in discourse on the controversial subject. No 2009 release date has been confirmed for "Nothing But the Truth," but when it does, this is a definate film that should be sought out.