Nothing But the Truth

Journalist Rachel Armstrong digs into a story that blows the lid on a covert CIA operative, setting off a clash between press and state. Her reporting exposes more than a scandal; it touches a sensitive case that could reveal an undercover identity. The government leans on a legal weapon, demanding that she reveal her sources, threatening her freedom. Rather than surrender, Rachel stands her ground as the pressure mounts and legal maneuvering escalates. Her attorney, Alan Burnside, fights the subpoena in a courtroom odyssey that tracks the limits of journalistic protection. The film births a tense drama around truth, accountability, and the price of speaking out.

Directed by Rod Lurie, Nothing But the Truth released in 2008 as a tight courtroom thriller. It is based on an original screenplay and features Kate Beckinsale, Matt Dillon, Angela Bassett, Alan Alda, and Vera Farmiga, with a strong supporting cast.

It had a modest run at the box office, grossing about 409,832 worldwide against a budget of 11.5 million, reflecting its limited release and niche appeal. The cast delivers restrained performances that emphasize the moral weight of the case.

Despite its modest profile, the film engages with enduring debates on journalist source protection and government transparency. It is often cited in discussions about press freedom and the ethical weight of reporting, contributing to a lineage of legal thrillers that probe truth under pressure. Its themes of whistleblower protection and government overreach resonate in film studies discussions about media law.

Critics were divided on its execution, but the drama consistently centers on the clash between the public right to know and state secrecy. The film foregrounds ethics, accountability, and the personal stakes for those who fight for transparency. Some critics praised the quiet intensity and moral nuance, while others felt the courtroom talk overshadowed character development.