Trumbo

The film begins in 1947, showcasing Dalton Trumbo, a successful screenwriter, comfortably writing his latest script while soaking in his bathtub. This idyllic image starkly contrasts with the turbulent times that he soon will face as political unrest begins to swell in Hollywood.

Trumbo visits a cinema and watches a film reel where gossip columnist Hedda Hopper publicly accuses him and others in Hollywood of being Communists. This event marks the unwelcome onset of scrutiny that Trumbo and his peers will soon endure amidst the backdrop of the House Un-American Activities Committee investigations.

At their ranch, Trumbo's young daughter, Niki, curiously asks her father if he is a Communist. Trumbo reassures her by explaining that wanting a better government is not a crime, using a heartfelt analogy to illustrate his beliefs and values in the face of rising political tension.

During a Motion Picture Alliance meeting, John Wayne delivers a vehemently critical speech about Communism. Trumbo daringly counters Wayne's remarks, highlighting the disparity between their real-life experiences in the military, illustrating the growing divide within Hollywood regarding political allegiance.

Trumbo visits MGM Studios and meets with Louis B. Mayer, who informs him about his status as Hollywood's highest-paid writer. Mayer cautions Trumbo against the negative press from Hedda Hopper, foreshadowing the challenges he will soon face at the hands of public opinion.

Just as Trumbo revels in a family celebration over his lucrative contract, an unexpected guest arrives with a subpoena. This moment signifies a dramatic turning point, branding Trumbo and fellow writers as threats to democracy, which sets off a series of pivotal events.

The Hollywood Ten, including Trumbo, face challenging hearings where they provide vague answers to avoid contempt charges. This marks a critical moment of resistance and unity among them as they hope for eventual vindication from the Supreme Court.

The hearings culminate in the Hollywood Ten being found guilty of contempt, which hits Trumbo hard, risking his financial stability with the annulment of his contract. Despite such adversity, Trumbo remains undeterred in his passion for screenwriting.

In defiance of the blacklisting, Trumbo begins writing under pseudonyms such as Ian McLellan Hunter to maintain his career. Notably, he achieves success with the screenplay for Roman Holiday, a popular film that highlights his resilience despite the ongoing turmoil.

As Trumbo is sentenced to prison, he encounters other inmates, including senator J. Parnell Thomas, who becomes a symbol of the absurdity of his situation. This experience heightens Trumbo's sense of irony as he struggles against the injustice of the political climate.

Back in Hollywood, Edward G. Robinson faces his own moral crisis as he feels forced to name names to save himself from the fallout of the blacklist. This decision illustrates the personal sacrifices and ethical struggles faced by many during this oppressive era.

Once Trumbo completes his prison sentence, he finds it challenging to reconnect with his family due to the emotional toll of his absence. Their struggle to adapt to the ongoing effects of the blacklist reflects the broader consequences of the political climate on personal lives.

While navigating the complexities of the blacklisting after his return home, tragedy befalls Trumbo with the death of his friend Arlen Hird. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs of political persecution during this tumultuous time.

As Trumbo writes Spartacus, one of his scripts for which he is uncredited, the public gradually begins to recognize his contributions. This shift in perception signifies a turning point against the blacklisting narrative, empowering Trumbo's voice in Hollywood once again.

During the Oscars, Trumbo's true identity as Robert Rich is revealed, marking a climactic moment in the film. This revelation catalyzes a change in public opinion regarding the blacklist, ultimately allowing Trumbo to reclaim his dignity and legacy in the industry.