The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee
The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee

The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee

2017Movie90 minEnglish

An intimate portrait of Washington Post executive editor Ben Bradlee, tracing his remarkable ascent from a young Boston boy stricken with polio to the one of the most pioneering and consequential journalistic figures of the 20th century.

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IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes76%
Metacritic62/100
Google Users85%
Director: Matt TyrnauerGenres: Documentary, Biography

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the remarkable life and career of Ben Bradlee, the legendary executive editor of The Washington Post. It explores his pivotal role in shaping modern journalism, particularly his leadership during the Watergate scandal and the Pentagon Papers. The film also examines Bradlee's personal life and his enduring influence on American media and politics.

Critical Reception

The documentary was generally well-received by critics, who praised its insightful portrait of a pivotal figure in American journalism. Reviewers highlighted Bradlee's charisma and his significant impact on The Washington Post's trajectory. Audience reception was also positive, appreciating the historical context and the examination of journalistic integrity.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its compelling look at a transformative figure in journalism.
  • Acknowledged for its insightful exploration of Bradlee's leadership during critical historical moments.
  • Noted for effectively capturing the spirit and impact of The Washington Post under his tenure.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the documentary's comprehensive look at Ben Bradlee's life and his significant contributions to journalism. Many found it to be an informative and engaging portrayal of a key historical figure. Some viewers noted that while it offered a solid overview, it could have delved even deeper into certain aspects of his career and personal life.

Fun Fact

During the filming, Ben Bradlee, despite being in his 90s, insisted on being interviewed in his own home, offering insights and anecdotes with his characteristic wit and sharp memory.

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