Starring Robert Redford, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Robards and Martin Balsam
Screenplay by William Goldman based on the book by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
Directed by Alan J Pakula
USA 1976
138 mins
Almost exactly 45 years ago, on June 17 1972, a group of men were caught breaking into the Democratic National Committee headquarters in the Watergate building in Washington DC. Bob Woodward - a junior reporter on The Washington Post newspaper was sent to cover what seemed to be a minor burglary. What Woodward gradually uncovered along with his partner Carl Bernstein was a gigantic conspiracy - one that went all the way to the top of the government - to the President himself - Richard Nixon. In large part as a result of their investigations Nixon would eventually resign - ending an unprecedented and extraordinary passage in American political history.
This thrilling big screen adaptation of the Watergate story was directed by Alan J Pakula. 'All The President's Men' forms part of what is known as his 'Paranoia Trilogy' - the other two pictures being 'Klute' and 'The Parallax View'. Working with ace cinematographer Gordon Willis, Pakula brings an unsettling, edgy visual sensibility to the film - with the brightly lit newsroom scenes in strong contrast to the dark, shadowy meetings between the two reporters and their informants. Screenwriter William Goldman steers us skilfully through the labyrinthine details of the conspiracy - focusing on the detective story and the mounting energy and excitement of the investigation.
Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman are perfectly cast as Woodward and Bernstein - their contrasting characters and physical style make them one of cinemas best dramatic double acts - leading to perhaps the most successful screen depiction of journalism and journalists we have seen.
From the arresting opening sequence in which typewriter keys spell out the date in giant close up 'All the President's Men' is a compelling and sophisticated drama and with rumours of illegal activity and treason swirling around the Trump presidency and impeachment seemingly waiting in the wings what better time to screen it.
The film will be introduced by the distinguished Foreign Affairs Correspondent for Channel 4 News Jonathan Rugman. Last November Jonathan gave unique context to our screening of 'Primary Colors' in the run-up to the Presidential election. 'All The President's Men' is one of his favourite movies and he will undoubtedly deliver a fascinating commentary on the picture and its relationship to the current political situation.
We are planning to start the screening as soon after 8.0pm as possible so please make sure that you arrive in good time!
