Watch The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee

The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee is a 2017 documentary directed by John Maggio that highlights the life and career of the legendary Washington Post editor, Ben Bradlee. The film primarily chronicles Bradlee's ascent to become one of the most influential newspaper editors in America, his involvement in two of the most defining moments in modern American history - the Watergate Scandal and the publication of the Pentagon Papers - and his impact on the field of journalism.

Through a series of interviews with Bradlee's colleagues, friends, and family members, as well as archival footage and photographs, the documentary paints a vivid picture of the man who was instrumental in turning the Washington Post into one of the most respected newspapers in the world.

The journey of Ben Bradlee began in Boston, a city where he grew up and learned how to write from his mother, who was a playwright. After serving in the Navy during World War II, Bradlee entered the newspaper business, where he worked his way up the ladder, starting out as a reporter for the Washington Post, then moving on to Newsweek, and finally returning to the Post, where he eventually became the managing editor. Bradlee's tenure at the Post was marked by a period of great turmoil in American politics and journalism, and he played a key role in changing the face of both.

The pivotal moments in Bradlee's career, which are documented in the film, include his role in the Watergate Scandal, which led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon, and his involvement in the Washington Post's publication of the Pentagon Papers, which exposed the government's lies about the Vietnam War. These two events cemented Bradlee's reputation as a fearless journalist who was willing to take risks to ensure that the truth was revealed.

The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee also provides a glimpse into Bradlee's personal life, including his relationships with his family, colleagues, and friends. The film features interviews with his wife, Sally Quinn, his son, Ben Bradlee Jr., and other close associates, who talk about what made him such a charismatic and beloved figure.

Overall, the documentary is a tribute to Bradlee's legacy as an icon of American journalism, a man who inspired generations of reporters to push the boundaries of what was considered possible. It reminds us of the importance of a free and independent press, and how it can be a check on those in power. The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in history, politics, or journalism, and it is a fitting tribute to a man who played such an important role in shaping all three.

The Newspaperman: The Life and Times of Ben Bradlee is a 2017 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.