The Report

In early 2009, Daniel Jones begins an intensive investigation into the destruction of CIA interrogation videotapes from 2005. He is selected by Senator Dianne Feinstein to lead a review of over six million pages of CIA documents related to enhanced interrogation techniques.

The movie recounts the tragic events of September 11, 2001, as CIA personnel at the Counterterrorist Center grapple with the unfolding attacks. Employees, including Bernadette, watch the chaos unfold on live television, prompting urgent discussions on national security.

In the days that follow the attacks, DCI George Tenet meets with President George W. Bush and CIA director Cofer Black. They discuss critical counterterrorism operations and authorize the CIA to capture and detain suspected terrorists, setting in motion controversial interrogation tactics.

In 2002, contracted psychologists Bruce Jessen and James Elmer Mitchell are trained to implement the enhanced interrogation techniques authorized by the CIA. Their invasive methods become a central aspect of the Agency's controversial approach to interrogation.

As Daniel Jones delves deeper into his investigation, he encounters obstacles when half of his team leaves due to the Department of Justice initiating its inquiry. Despite these challenges, Jones perseveres with the support of April and Julian, aiming to uncover the truth.

A crucial meeting with FBI agent Ali Soufan reveals vital information about the CIA's interrogation practices, particularly regarding detainee Abu Zubaydah. This discussion contrasts the FBI's rapport-building techniques with the CIA's harsh and controversial EITs.

During a critical briefing, Jones presents compelling evidence indicating that the CIA was aware Zubaydah was not affiliated with Al-Qaeda. This misinformation leads to the authorization of enhanced interrogation techniques against him, marking a dark milestone in the Agency's actions.

In a clandestine meeting, Raymond Nathan, a physician assistant, reveals that medical professionals had expressed their concerns over the classification of EITs as torture. His testimony outlines the traumatic experience Zubaydah endured during waterboarding, bringing to light the moral implications.

As investigations continue, Jones and his team confront the tragic narrative of Gul Rahman, who succumbed to hypothermia due to the CIA's interrogation methods. This discovery highlights the severe consequences of their work, amplifying the urgency for accountability.

Following the internal critique known as the Panetta Review, Jones faces pushback from the CIA as they challenge the report's findings. The review asserts that no unique intelligence was gained through EITs, leading to rising tensions between Jones and the Agency.

Frustration escalates when Senator Mark Udall confronts CIA officials during a hearing, staunchly defending the integrity of the committee's study. In the midst of this political battle, Jones takes precautionary measures to protect the Panetta Review document.

In retaliation for Jones's relentless pursuit of the truth, the CIA unlawfully searches his office, violating the separation of powers agreement. Jones discreetly informs a New York Times journalist about the misconduct, igniting a public outcry against the CIA.

During a tense confrontation amid rising tensions, Senator Feinstein supports Jones as he stands firm against pressure from the CIA. Their collaboration exemplifies the struggle for transparency and justice in the face of institutional wrath.

As the Republican Party gains Senate control in the 2014 midterm elections, the urgency to release the report summary increases. Senator Feinstein, alongside John McCain, delivers a poignant speech stressing the report's implications, highlighting the importance of accountability.

In an epilogue presented through intertitles, it is revealed that after the report's publication, Daniel Jones resigns amidst an environment where no CIA personnel faced legal repercussions for their actions. Shockingly, many individuals involved were promoted, raising serious ethical concerns.