Megan Carter is a reporter duped into running an untrue story on Michael Gallagher, a suspected racketeer. He has an alibi for the time his crime was allegedly committed—but it involves an innocent party. When he tells Carter the truth and the newspaper runs it, tragedy follows, forcing Carter to face up to the responsibilities of her job when she is confronted by Gallagher.
A Miami newspaper columnist, Megan Carter, gets caught in a web of deceit when she is fed a false story about a crime suspect by a corrupt prosecutor. Believing the information to be true, she publishes an exposé that ruins the innocent man's reputation and threatens his life. As Megan investigates further, she uncovers a conspiracy involving powerful figures who manipulated the media for their own gain. The film follows her struggle to expose the truth while dealing with the personal consequences of her actions.
Absence of Malice was met with generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its compelling narrative, strong performances, and its exploration of journalistic ethics. While some found the plot somewhat contrived, the film was widely seen as a thought-provoking examination of the power and responsibility of the press.
Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's intelligent script and the compelling performances, particularly from its lead actors. Many found it to be a thought-provoking drama that effectively highlighted the potential for journalistic errors and their severe consequences.
Nominated for 3 Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Paul Newman), and Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama (Sally Field).
The character of Megan Carter was inspired by real-life investigative journalist Janet Cooke, who famously fabricated a Pulitzer Prize-winning story for The Washington Post.
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