Defence of the Realm
Defence of the Realm

Movie spotlight

Defence of the Realm

1986
Movie
96 min
English

A reporter named Mullen 'stumbles' onto a story linking a prominent Member of Parliament to a KGB agent and a near-nuclear disaster involving a teenage runaway and a U.S. Air Force base. Has there been a Government cover-up? Mullen teams up with Vernon Bayliss, an old hack, and Nina Beckam, the MP's assistant, to find out the truth.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes90%
Metacritic78/100
Google Users85%
Director: Sir David PuttnamGenres: Thriller, Political

Plot Summary

A British journalist investigating a suspicious power outage at a military base uncovers a vast conspiracy that implicates powerful figures within the government and intelligence services. As he delves deeper, he finds himself in increasing danger, with his own life and career on the line. The film explores the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in pursuit of the truth within a complex web of political intrigue.

Critical Reception

Defence of the Realm was critically acclaimed for its intelligent script, taut direction, and compelling performances. Reviewers praised its exploration of journalistic ethics and its suspenseful portrayal of political conspiracy. It is often regarded as one of the best British thrillers of the 1980s.

What Reviewers Say

  • Intelligent and suspenseful political thriller.

  • Sharp commentary on journalism and government.

  • Gripping plot with strong performances.

Google audience: Viewers generally praised the film's intricate plot and its thought-provoking themes about the press and power. Many appreciated the well-paced suspense and the film's ability to keep them engaged until the very end.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Bear at the 36th Berlin International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's script was reportedly inspired by real-life events and concerns surrounding government secrecy and media control in the UK during the 1980s.

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