The definition of bombshell can go down two different roads:
- One that is stunning, amazing, or devastating
- A person who is the cause and object of sensational and usually widespread attention, excitement, or attraction
The movie title in this case serves both definitions right.
Whether or not the movie presents the true story is not something we are gonna discuss here (although apparently it was pretty accurate).
With that in mind, let’s take a look at Bombshell, and it’s core theme which is as relevant as ever, but has gained strength this last couple o f years.
Bombshell Non Spoiler Synopsis
Roger Ailes, is a powerful executive that runs Fox News, one of the biggest news networks in the world.
Megyn Kelly is one of the top anchors on the network, she seems to be admired and respected by everyone. Well except for Trump.
Gretchen Carlson is another important anchor, who was recently demoted to less popular shows because she is outspoken about the inappropriate remarks her bosses and coworkers make about her looks.
Gretchen finally decides enough is enough, and decides to sue Roger Ailes, who has harassed her on multiple occasions.
She expects multiple other women to come forward and denounce Roger’s misconduct, but sometimes promotions or even threats come in between.
Bombshell Review
The highlights of the film are the makeup/costume design, the acting, and of course the story.
The makeup team really outdid themselves. It’s no wonder they received the Academy Award in their category. If you compare the real life Megyn with Charlize Theron you will barely see any difference.
John Lithgow is almost unrecognizable too. As he becomes this pervert tycoon who abuses power over his female employees.
And of course, their performances absolutely help to sell the story.
Nicole Kidman is probably one of the greatest actresses of this generation. Since the 90’s she has given amazing performances as well as production credits. We might be looking at the next Meryl Streep in terms of legacy. She still has lots to offer.
Margot Robbie is also great. Although her character is completely made up and didn’t exist in real life, she serves the purpose of illustrating what an everyday woman can be exposed at work.
Check out our list of the top actresses of the decade!
Which brings us to the main point.
Story
Bad people are everywhere. It is hard to catalogue every single person on earth on the “good” or “bad” side.
We’ve all done wrong sometimes, but there is no denying that some wrongdoings can be way more harmful than others. Some of those wrongdoings have become systematic for a portion of the population, and that is sexual harassment.
What this film does is bring to light what many women experience in the workplace. Yes, we know most men aren’t abusers or perverts like Ailes. However, the small proportion who are, certainly give many women a really, REALLY hard time.
There is an amazing scene where a woman seems to be close to finally getting promoted, only to realize in order to do so, she must comply to her boss’s sexual advances.
In the scene, we follow her thought process. How she feels repulsed and offended but must pretend to be confused or blame herself for “making” her boss misinterpret the relationship.
This film is by no means a masterpiece. At times it can feel like it drags to long on some unimportant or uninteresting characters. But it paints a clear picture of who Robert Ailes was, and how his abuse can affect dozens of women.
So if you have time, go check it out, it is a thought provoking and entertaining film.
