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Inspiring the Archdiocese of Baltimore

From left, Jodi Kantor (Zoe Kazan) and Megan Twohey (Carey Mulligan) in She Said, directed by Maria Schrader. (Courtesy of Universal Studios)

Movie Review: ‘She Said’


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Catholic Review Filed Under: Movie & Television Reviews

NEW YORK – For decades, Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein reigned as one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry. Today, he’s a convicted sex offender sentenced to a 23-year term in New York and facing further charges in California.

The most significant events leading to that radical change of fortune are recounted in the dramatization “She Said” (Universal). The film stars Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan as Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, the investigative reporters whose 2017 New York Times article brought to light Weinstein’s long-rumored pattern of sexual harassment.

Grown-ups, for whom the harsh topics covered in this polished production are alone appropriate, will find the duo’s story enlightening and their dedication inspiring. Those with long cinematic memories will likely draw comparisons with 1976’s Watergate-themed “All the President’s Men” as well as with “Spotlight,” the 2015 movie about The Boston Globe’s exposure of clergy sexual abuse within that city’s archdiocese.

Working from Twohey and Kantor’s 2019 bestseller, director Maria Schrader depicts the dogged determination of the newswomen, the courage and resilience of their victimized sources and, ultimately, the power of journalism to reveal wrongdoing. Although their efforts take a toll on family life, both leading characters are shown to be in strong marriages.

The continual setbacks the duo faced can begin to feel frustrating to viewers as well. But the breakthrough, when it comes, packs a wallop and will prove especially gratifying to Christians in the audience – who will already have noted that Kantor is shown to be a religiously observant Jew.

Weinstein’s downfall had implications far beyond his individual case since it sparked the MeToo movement aimed at ending the type of misconduct for which he was – and remains – notorious. Given that Twohey and Kantor’s work gave rise to this widespread reform, a high-quality chronicle of their struggle makes a welcome addition to what will soon be the crowded list of films released for the holidays.

Look for: A thoughtful exploration of an important, though grim, subject.

Look out for: Mature themes and references, a few mild oaths, numerous rough expressions and about a half-dozen crude terms.

The Catholic Moviegoer’s guidance is M – suitable for mature viewers. The Motion Picture Association rating is R – restricted; under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

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