These films focus on journalists and reporters uncovering important stories, often involving corruption, crime, or societal issues.

1. All the President’s Men (1976)

Two Washington Post reporters uncover the details of the Watergate scandal that leads to President Nixon’s resignation.

Why it’s great:

• Alan J. Pakula‘s taut direction
• Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman’s performances as Woodward and Bernstein
• Thrilling portrayal of investigative journalism

2. Spotlight (2015)

The true story of how the Boston Globe uncovered the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese.

Why it’s great:

• Tom McCarthy‘s methodical direction
• Strong ensemble cast including Michael Keaton and Mark Ruffalo
• Detailed portrayal of investigative process and its impact

3. The Insider (1999)

A research chemist comes under personal and professional attack when he decides to appear in a “60 Minutes” expose on Big Tobacco.

Why it’s great:

• Michael Mann‘s intense direction
• Russell Crowe and Al Pacino’s powerful performances
• Exploration of corporate whistleblowing and journalistic integrity

4. Zodiac (2007)

In the late 1960s/early 1970s, a San Francisco cartoonist becomes an amateur detective obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac Killer.

Why it’s great:

• David Fincher’s meticulous direction
• Jake Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Robert Graysmith’s obsession
• Detailed look at the investigation of the Zodiac Killer case

5. The Post (2017)

A cover-up that spanned four U.S. Presidents pushed the country’s first female newspaper publisher and a hard-driving editor to join an unprecedented battle between the press and the government.

Why it’s great:

• Steven Spielberg’s timely direction
• Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks’ performances as Katharine Graham and Ben Bradlee
• Exploration of press freedom and government accountability.