Director
Gavin Hood
(EYE IN THE SKY)

Starring
Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, Ralph Fiennes and Matt Smith

Official Secrets is the true story of Katharine Gun (Keira Knightley); an employee of Britain’s intelligence organization GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters) who was accused of leaking a secret memo exposing an illegal espionage operation requested by the US government to try and coax the UN in agreeing to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Questions over the morality of government agencies arise, and how much of what is told to the public is actually the truth.

Last week we reviewed The Report which shared similar themes, and after seeing Official Secrets, I can’t help but lament that this is everything that The Report could have been. Brilliant script writing, well-paced and gripping throughout, Knightley’s performance is subtle and flawless, and the experienced cast add quality throughout the entire film. While it would have been easy for such heavy subject matter to convolute the film, the writers here have managed to convey the drama in a way that appeals to any audience.

It’s an interesting time for films like this. Now that the dust has mostly settled on the Iraq invasion and the ‘war on terror’, there is a lot more analysis and criticism on the events that shaped our modern history. In this instance the story of Katharine Gun shows that there were unheralded heroes that on a global scale, largely flew under the radar, and it’s stories like these that need to be told. What Gavin Hood has achieved here, is telling one such story in a way that will engage the most people. Whilst it might be criticised for its slight lack of sophistication by some, it should be more accurately seen as its strength. It’s important that all people can understand the mistakes of the past so that they are easily recognised if repeated.

Whilst Official Secrets isn’t likely to be an awards darling this year, it should certainly be a fan favourite.

Official Secrets is released in Australian cinemas November 21.

4.5 Stars

Moviedoc thanks Universal Pictures for the opportunity to review this film.

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