The Post

The Post

Year: 2017

Runtime: 116 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Steven Spielberg

BiographyDramaHistoryThriller

In this gripping drama, Steven Spielberg directs Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in the true story of Katharine Graham, the publisher of The Washington Post. Facing immense pressure, she partners with editor Ben Bradlee to challenge government secrecy and publish the Pentagon Papers. This high-stakes decision puts their careers and the newspaper’s future at risk as they expose decades of concealed information.

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Timeline – The Post (2017)

Trace every key event in The Post (2017) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Ellsberg arrives in Vietnam

In late 1965, Daniel Ellsberg arrives in Hau Giang Province, Vietnam, as part of his duties at the Embassy. He is tasked with monitoring the ongoing Vietnam War, a critical role that places him in the heart of the conflict.

late 1965 Hau Giang Province, Vietnam
2

Ambushed by enemy snipers

During a night mission in the dark forest, Ellsberg and his team come under fire from unseen enemy snipers. This harrowing experience highlights the dangers faced by soldiers and the complexities of the war.

late 1965 Vietnamese forest
3

Conversation with McNamara

On his return flight, Ellsberg has a crucial conversation with Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara. He shares his insights about the disheartening realities of the war, emphasizing that despite his observations, nothing has changed.

late 1965 Flight back from Vietnam
4

McNamara misleads the press

Upon arriving back in Washington, McNamara faces the press and falsely asserts that conditions in Vietnam are improving. This misrepresentation marks a significant moment in the ongoing deception surrounding the war.

Washington, D.C.
5

Ellsberg steals classified documents

Determined to reveal the truth, Ellsberg clandestinely exits the Pentagon with classified Vietnam War documents. His act of defiance sets in motion a series of events that will challenge the government's narrative.

Pentagon
6

Discovering the truth about the war

As Ellsberg reviews the stolen documents, he uncovers alarming information indicating that four U.S. presidents concealed significant facts about the Vietnam War from both the public and the press. This revelation deepens his commitment to exposing the truth.

7

Kay Graham prepares The Washington Post

Fast forward to 1971, where Kay Graham is planning to take The Washington Post public. During a meeting, she expresses concern about the newspaper's potential coverage of President Nixon's daughter's wedding.

1971 Washington, D.C.
8

Graham's leadership challenged

During a tense board meeting, Arthur Parsons questions Graham's leadership abilities, raising doubts partly because she is a woman and the widow of the previous publisher. This moment underscores the gender biases present in the business world at the time.

9

McNamara warns Graham

McNamara makes a surprising visit to Graham, warning her about the unfavorable coverage that may appear in the next day's paper. His warning reveals the delicate balance between political power and media freedom.

Graham's residence
10

The New York Times publishes its story

The New York Times breaks a monumental story regarding the Pentagon Papers, unveiling the government's cover-up of the Vietnam War. This publication sends shockwaves through the media and the political landscape.

1971 New York City
11

Bagdikian meets Ellsberg

Post journalist Ben Bagdikian meets Ellsberg in a motel, where he receives over 1,000 pages of printed documents. This encounter is crucial as it further equips The Post with the information needed to challenge the government.

Motel
12

Strategizing for the story

Excited about the information gathered, Bagdikian informs editor Ben Bradlee, leading to a strategy meeting involving other journalists. They prepare to tackle the monumental story with the potential for significant legal implications.

13

Graham contemplates her responsibilities

Amid the looming legal threat, Graham confides in her daughter Lally about her fears of managing The Post while honoring her late husband's legacy. This personal struggle adds depth to her character and determination.

14

The Post publishes the article

Despite the risks, Graham decides to move forward with publishing the explosive story on the front page. This bold decision not only impacts The Post but also inspires other newspapers to follow suit.

The Washington Post
15

Supreme Court ruling

The story culminates in a pivotal moment at the Supreme Court where a ruling is made in favor of The Post. The ruling emphasizes the principles of freedom of the press, reflecting the ongoing battle between government secrecy and public interest.

Supreme Court

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 23:29

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The Post Summary

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The Post Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Post

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Post

More About The Post

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