I always proceed with caution when a movie is based on actual events or words to that effect. Often directors have an axe to grind when it comes down to politics or history which leads to an inherent bias or distortion of facts. Usually scenes which tug at the audience heartstrings are added for effect, The Whistleblower being no exception. The presence of a well known anti-establishment actress in a supporting role also had me worried. However the subject matter here makes this a no brainer. Surely no one except those profiting from the exploitation of human trafficking can condone such behaviour. The movie also makes us privy to a world of kickbacks and sweetheart contracts associated with an organisation that is supposed to be helping people.
As this is a movie and not a documentary it is necessary to play out as a thriller and on this level it succeeds. Weisz is good in a lead role were she strikes the correct balance. The parallel story regarding the abducted girl from the Ukraine dovetails into the Weisz story seamlessly. The unfolding of the girls story puts a human face onto the tragedy as we see how she was betrayed by members of her own family and then witness her mothers false hope and ultimate despair.
Ironically legislation was passed in the UK to offer some legal protection for whistleblowers and in this story although a constructive dismissal case was upheld not one single person faced criminal prosecution for trafficking. Its called diplomatic immunity. Events in the world of current affairs post dating this film have simply reinforced the message of this movie, that the world of the whistleblower is a cold, lonely and dangerous place.
As others have commented there would appear to be some problems with the authenticity of on screen accents. Not being familiar with the languages makes it impossible for me to verify, however if it is the case it shows poor attention to detail from those concerned.
As this is a movie and not a documentary it is necessary to play out as a thriller and on this level it succeeds. Weisz is good in a lead role were she strikes the correct balance. The parallel story regarding the abducted girl from the Ukraine dovetails into the Weisz story seamlessly. The unfolding of the girls story puts a human face onto the tragedy as we see how she was betrayed by members of her own family and then witness her mothers false hope and ultimate despair.
Ironically legislation was passed in the UK to offer some legal protection for whistleblowers and in this story although a constructive dismissal case was upheld not one single person faced criminal prosecution for trafficking. Its called diplomatic immunity. Events in the world of current affairs post dating this film have simply reinforced the message of this movie, that the world of the whistleblower is a cold, lonely and dangerous place.
As others have commented there would appear to be some problems with the authenticity of on screen accents. Not being familiar with the languages makes it impossible for me to verify, however if it is the case it shows poor attention to detail from those concerned.
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