The Pentagon Papers (film)

The Pentagon Papers is a 2017 American historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the 1971 publication of the Pentagon Papers, a classified United States Department of Defense study of the history of the United States' political-military involvement in Vietnam. The film depicts the events surrounding the leak of the documents by Daniel Ellsberg to The New York Times and other newspapers, and the subsequent government attempts to suppress their publication.

The film stars Tom Hanks as Daniel Ellsberg and Meryl Streep as Katharine Graham, the publisher of The Washington Post. The narrative focuses on the ethical dilemmas faced by Ellsberg and the newspaper executives, as they grapple with the implications of publishing classified information, balancing the public's right to know with the potential risks to national security. The film highlights the tensions between press freedom, government secrecy, and the ongoing Vietnam War. The legal battles surrounding the publication are also a central theme, showcasing the clash between the First Amendment and national security concerns. The film received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and its portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history. While it takes some creative license with certain aspects of the story for dramatic effect, it generally strives for historical accuracy regarding the core events. The film explores the impact of the Pentagon Papers on public opinion and the course of the Vietnam War. Further research into the actual events and individuals involved is recommended for a complete understanding.