The Words (2012)
by: China May A. Bacoy
The Words, directed by Brian Klugman and Lee Sternthal, is a film that lingers long after the
credits roll, exploring the moral gray areas of creativity, authenticity, and the cost of literary
theft. With a layered narrative, it dives into the struggles of writers who face difficult choices
about what they’re willing to sacrifice for success—and the ripple effects those choices have on
their lives and others.
The story follows Rory Jansen (played by Bradley Cooper), a struggling writer who dreams of
being recognized for his work. His big break comes when he stumbles upon an old manuscript in
a briefcase. After deciding to claim it as his own, the book becomes a runaway bestseller,
bringing him fame and fortune. However, it also brings a crushing weight of guilt. The plot takes
a deeper turn when an elderly man (played by Jeremy Irons) reveals himself as the manuscript's
true author, adding layers to the film's exploration of ownership, identity, and the moral
consequences of deception.
One of the main themes of The Words is the idea of authenticity in art. The film prompts viewers
to ask tough questions: What does it mean to be a real artist? How far would someone go to
achieve success, and what are the true costs of that ambition? Rory's initial excitement about his
book's success soon fades as he wrestles with the ethical implications of his actions. His internal
struggle resonates with anyone who has questioned the balance between drawing inspiration
from others and creating something entirely their own.
The film also explores the theme of consequences. Rory’s rise to fame comes with a heavy price
—not only does he lose his sense of self-respect, but his relationships, especially with his wife,
begin to unravel. The story serves as a cautionary tale about how easily fame can cloud judgment
and lead to ethical compromises. The way the narrative intertwines the lives of the characters
underscores how one person’s choices can send ripples through the lives of others, creating a
complex web of cause and effect.
Bradley Cooper brings a nuanced performance to the role of Rory, skillfully portraying the
character’s journey from an eager, hopeful writer to a man burdened with guilt. Jeremy Irons, as
the older author, delivers a haunting portrayal of loss and unfulfilled dreams, embodying the
quiet pain that comes with seeing someone else take credit for your life’s work. Their
interactions form the emotional heart of the film, with their differing perspectives on authorship
creating a tense yet poignant dynamic.
Watching The Words made me reflect on my own views about creativity and the idea of
ownership. It raises the question: How much of what we create is truly original, and how much
of it is shaped by the influence of others? The film challenges us to think about the ethical side of
writing and the responsibility that comes with creating something new. It reminded me that the
path to success as a writer is rarely straightforward and that integrity should always be at the
forefront of any creative endeavor.
In conclusion, The Words is an insightful and thought-provoking film that doesn’t just entertain,
but also encourages deep reflection on the nature of creativity, integrity, and the moral cost of
success. With strong performances and a compelling story, it’s a film that sticks with you,
offering a poignant reminder that while ambition is important, it should never come at the
expense of one’s honesty or values.
