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Spotlight - A Movie Review

'Spotlight' is a powerful example of commitment, success, and how to put your foot in the door.

By Marielle SabbagPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
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When one voice is made, at least hundreds speak out.

Spotlight was released to theaters in 2015. Based on the true events of The Boston Globe uncovering a shocking scandal in the Catholic churches, a team of reporters works endlessly to scrounge up all the details that they can find to release a groundbreaking story.

Spotlight won the award for the best film at the 2016 Academy Awards. The subject matter is not appealing but the way the film is portrayed is brilliant. In this riveting film that I could not take my eyes away from the screen, Spotlight is a powerful example of commitment, success, and how to put your foot in the door.

Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and Liev Schrieber spent incredulous time researching and meeting with the actual people who reported on this scandal. Their performances were so captivating that the actual people involved reported that they were so impressed it was like watching themselves in a mirror.

This film really demonstrates the range most of these actors can achieve. Lately, I have watched a few films with Rachel McAdams. McAdams is very talented reaching numerous ranges. She does an outstanding job specifically during one notable scene where she courageously listens to an unpleasant topic.

Mark Ruffalo especially hit the high mark with his excellent performance delivering riveting emotion. His character is the best example for those who are just sticking their foot in the door for the first time. He makes crucial sacrifices to stand out. The scene where he howls at his colleagues about the point of this whole project is a well-acted moment that deserved Ruffalo his nomination for the best supporting actor.

Other credits include John Slattery, Brian d’Arcy James, Stanley Tucci, Elena Wohl, Gene Amoroso, Doug Murray, Sharon McFarland, and several voices that courageously lent their experience to the making of this film.

I am most impressed with how the cast acted through acting. For grueling subject matter, this film shows journalists how important it is to keep their focus instead of avoiding their duties.

For those who want to become a journalist, Spotlight is the best example in the world of journalism. My favorite aspect of the film that I didn’t realize so much is how this crucial assignment eats into the reporter’s personal lives. Their studious research is great because they learn facts that the world has tried to hide.

The subject matter regarding priests molesting kids is not a socially accepted subject matter, but I applaud Tom McCarthy for the way that he handled the topic. McCarthy uncovered this scandalous story because it is so astonishing. His bold direction created a genuine film. Even quick little scenes are important to project realism.

In one scene, I liked the camera pan out as the group discusses facts about what they have learned. It’s an example of the unbelievable. Overall, the direction and camera angles were planned out very well capturing the little moments of this exciting and yet terrifying report.

Finding your career is a journey in itself. As described excellently in the film just because we have found our dream job does not mean that every day is going to be the best. You also find out why you are doing it. We just may uncover a whole new meaning to your passion.

I don’t recommend this film to anyone who is uncomfortable around the topic of child molestation. However, you cannot miss out on this excellent film. Spotlight is remarkable. I applaud everyone who was involved to help the victims in the case feel at peace. Find it on Netflix.

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About the Creator

Marielle Sabbag

Writing has been my passion since I was 11 years old. I love creating stories from fiction, poetry, fanfiction. I enjoy writing movie reviews. I would love to become a creative writing teacher and leave the world inspiring minds.

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