She Said  ★★★½

HE IS a piece of work that Harvey Weinstein.

The former Hollywood heavyweight is now in prison paying for his crimes against women over several decades.

But apparently he’s still been reaching out from his cell and trying to block the release of the biographical drama She Said.

The film tells the story of the New York Times newspaper investigation that exposed allegations of abuse and sexual misconduct by Weinstein and attempts to cover up settlements through non-disclosure agreements.

It particularly focuses on the web of power and influence that he exerted in Hollywood and how this enabled and facilitated his behaviour for such a long time.

Carey Mulligan and Zoe Kazan play journalists Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor while Patricia Clarkson is one of their editors Rebecca Corbett. The trio were the principle authors of the investigative articles that took months to prepare.

While Twohey and Kantor are front and centre for most of the film, German director Maria Schrader and screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewicz are just as interested in the victims’ stories.

These were the women who summoned the courage and put their faith in the hands of the journalists to come forward and put their lives and reputations on the line.

As expertly as the film is made and acted by the principles, we know the outcome so the victims’ stories are what gives the narrative heart and drama.

Comparisons with other better films about the journalistic process and pursuit of truth aren’t necessary because the public exposure of Weinstein is accurately presented as a collective effort and responsibility.

It’s a topical testament to past events and a rallying call for society and individuals to have the courage to not allow these people to destroy lives and careers.