Bombshell: A Gross Reality

Rating: 7.2/10

A captivating and well-acted film, Bombshell is an uncomfortable yet important story to tell about sexual harassment in the workplace.

Highlights: 

• Great cast and acting

• Important subject to discuss

• Incredible makeup by Vivian Baker

Lowlights: 

• A dramatization

• Disturbing

• Glosses over the women's mistakes

Films based on a true story are making a serious comeback (The Upside, Ford v. Ferrari, and Hustlers all grossed nine figures), and Bombshell is no exception. Though it may not be particularly appealing to see a film where women are harassed, it's a difficult reality we must face. The star cast of Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman, and Margot Robbie perfectly emulate their characters, namely Charlize Theron, who spent over three hours every day getting in makeup for her role as Megyn Kelly. However, the dramatization of a serious subject makes me worry that this film was made to generate revenue first and bring to light the reality of sexual harassment in the workplace second. Yet Bombshell is a film that is engaging and serves as an important reminder several years after the dismissal of Roger Ailes.

Did you watch the movie? Do you want more? Check out Robyn Bahr of the Hollywood Reporter's article "From 'Hustlers' to Bombshell': How Female Alliances Influenced Movies in 2019." Bahr does a great job at appreciating the female friendships in film this year, including those in Bombshell. It looks like the way women are perceived in film is slowly changing, albeit after a long time of misogynistic portrayals.

Watch the trailer!