Reality

Reality: The story of Reality Leigh Winner, an NSA contacter who leaked information proving that Russian Intelligence had interfered in the 2016 US Presidential Election. Frustrated by seeing the reality being denied on Fox TV her tipping point was when Trump sacked FBI Director Comey. Ironically this led to her arrest by the FBI and prosecution. In spite of findings by a Senate Committee that her leak was in the public interest, Reality was sentenced to six years in prison. The film is based on the FBI interrogation transcript which was recorded on the day of her arrest, interspersed with posts from her Instagram account and TV news footage. Reality is played by Sydney Sweeney. The transcript comes to life as Reality is confronted by FBI agents, the first two playing good cops, who tell they realise that she just made a mistake, show concern for her animals, chat about cross training. A Master Class in how to get a confession when you haven't advised a suspect of their rights, just having a chat. There are some comic scenes, a cat being under the bed where Reality keeps a gun, another cat observing developments whilst seated in a child's pedal car across the street. But the tension builds as the agents get Reality to talk, I knew the outcome but the narrative still unfolds like a thriller. Well worth watching. Directed by Tina Satter, from a screenplay by Satter and James Paul Dallas. It is based on the play which Satter previously staged as Is This a Room. 8/10.

This movie is an almost verbatim re-enactment of an FBI transcript.

These reviews seem to fall into two camps. People who accept moral ambiguity and those who want a clear cinematic delineation between good and evil.. Reality (her real name) is neither a crusading whistleblower nor a traitor, but a woman who'd serve honorably in the U. S. Air Force and becomes increasingly tormented by conscience,. The FBI agents are neither shining knights or cruel thugs but highly trained actors playing FBI agents (well -trained actors themselves) trying to tease out the truth.

In any case, all the characters are real human beings, not movie heros or villains.

The tension IS a slow build, but relentless.

People who want a slam bang action film with clearly obvious good guys versus bad guys, whether Reality OR FBI agents, and virtue triumphing over evil, are going to be sorely disappointed (as shown by the reviews) .

People who want a binary film experience should avoid this brilliant film at all costs.

Those fascinated by the fuzziness of profound moral dilemmas should rush out to see this film as soon as possible.

"Reality" immerses viewers in a gripping tale, a reflection of the moment when the FBI descends upon Reality Winner, a former Air Force translator, with a search warrant in hand. While the general knowledge of Winner's deeds is widely known, I shall refrain from divulging the film's revelatory essence to preserve the enigma. "Reality" abstains from taking a definitive stance on Winner's actions, leaving room for subjective interpretation (although many may find themselves sympathetic to her motives, if not her methods). The fate of the actual Reality Winner remains shrouded until the film's unveiling. This introspective drama hinges entirely on the power of dialogue and the nuances of human reactions, demanding exceptional performances. Sydney Sweeney, in what could be deemed a career-defining portrayal, masterfully embodies Reality. Embracing a role devoid of glamour, Sweeney effortlessly exudes a profound vulnerability, an often-underappreciated skill in actors. As Reality's understanding of her situation deepens, her transformation becomes increasingly believable. "Reality" refrains from passing judgment, instead meticulously presenting the events and their unfolding. The stellar performances of the two central leads elevate the narrative, infusing it with exceptional authenticity. The weight of tension grips you from the outset, immersing you in a palpable atmosphere. Patience is a virtue required, for those seeking swift gratification may find themselves unfulfilled. Sydney and Josh deserve commendation for their captivating portrayals, leaving an indelible impression. Ultimately, the veil lifts, offering an insight into the FBI's interrogation techniques. A peculiar yet effective approach unfolds, as they seek not a straightforward confession but rather a manipulative dance of intimidation. The film unveils the inner workings of such interrogations, leaving you with a disconcerting awareness. Among the finest performances of the year, "Reality" presents a riveting and gripping experience. Personally, I found myself captivated, fascinated by its enigmatic allure. If you yearn for adrenaline-pumping action and violence, this may not satisfy your desires. However, I truly recommend it because it deserves a deep endorsement.

This movie only having a 6.6 average rating feels criminally low to me. This is how I wish more movies based on real events took place. Using the actual transcript, so there's no room for dramatization or fluff. The acting is fantastic, and at under 90 minutes I felt more tension with this movie than most Hollywood action blockbusters. I fear it will be overlooked, but it's a must watch that requires almost no time investment. If not exactly, it's pretty much shown in real time as the actual interrogation took place. I would love any recommendations in the replies of other films based on true events that use factual evidence of what was said and took place in its making.

This can only boost the career of Sydney Sweeney in what feels like a showcase of her acting, if ever you need a showreel to propel, this would be it. Far from just another talentless blonde, Sydney really excels in a very natural performance worthy of cementing herself as the future and one to watch.

Based on the true story of Reality Leigh Winner, an NSA contractor who released information proving of Russian interference in the 2016 US Presidential Election. This film might be a slow burner for many and definitely not everyone's cup of tea. It's mainly a low budget dialogue based script using actual FBI interrogation transcript loosely from recordings I'd imagine. The issue is many parts have to be bleeped out due to opening up a much bigger can of worms. Seems somewhat ironic as the released information is what brought us to the dance in the first place. There is a lot of repetition within the script, simple stuff that just fills gaps to extend what could be a short film. Agent Garrick (Josh Hamilton) and Agent Taylor (Marchant Davis) really do appear to be overly inquisitive at times, and asking simple questions multiple times that appear just time fillers. It feels like something that could be performed on stage better than in film mainly due to the fact it isn't overly entertaining to watch. What is intriguing and just enough to keep the audience engaged is the acting of Sydney Sweeney. The film also keep you involved as you want to know where it is all leading. Me not knowing much of the real story was of great benefit here. However if you knew of it you'd probably find it all too tiresome to continue.

The cinematography is basic and the direction isn't overly impressive as the entire piece revolves around acting, which is refreshing as I hear so many saying Sweeney is only famous for two things and they barely feature in this. Tina Satter makes a bold leap with her first film as a director, writer and producer so you can't fault the effort here. Overall it's not bad a one time watch film and definitely a step in the right direction for Sydney Sweeney.