Kill the Messenger

The rogue, crusading journalist has been a likeable protagonist in the thriller movie genre – some films depicting real events, some not. Many of Hollywood’s biggest stars have thrust themselves into these roles, which examine self-morality and ultimately larger themes of public awareness and justice. 

It is Peter Landesman’s (Parkland) cleverly written adapted screenplay that brings the tragedy of Webb’s undoing to life. The audience is left sympathising with an honest man whose life and family are being destroyed in front of his own eyes. At the film’s beginning, we’re presented with a cool-headed and self-assured character. Renner’s portrayal of Webb gives initial signs that he is a man determined for justice, a man that will leave nothing standing in his way for the empowering truth. It’s not until the film progresses and Webb’s life is tortured that the cracks begin to appear, and the film is able to draw its own truths and ask its own questions.

Renner’s performance is undoubtedly the standout of the film. Following a series of amicable but not career-defining roles (The Town, The Hurt Locker), he presents an authentic performance that takes the audience on a definite journey, provoking a series of issues concerning self and journalistic morality. Renner’s work is greatly aided by the cinematography of Sean Bobbitt (12 Years a Slave) who prowls after Renner as he navigates streets and corridors, or lurks close by, as if spying on him, further uncovering the character’s identity.

Kill the Messenger is clear about the line between fact and conjecture – but the facts alone make this an issue film that strikes its own domestic issues. Definitely worth seeing.

Tim Mead

Kill the Messenger is released nationwide on 6^th March 2015.