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Words of War

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72% Tomatometer 18 Reviews Popcornmeter Fewer than 50 Ratings
Based on a true story, WORDS OF WAR follows world-renowned journalist and human rights activist Anna Politkovskaya on her brave crusade, fighting to be an independent voice of truth for the Russian people, putting her own life in jeopardy despite numerous acts of intimidation and violence. While Anna was ultimately silenced, her legacy lives on and her story serves as a reminder of the dangers that journalists face and the importance of protecting their right to report the news without fear of death or reprisal.
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Critics Reviews

View All (18) Critics Reviews
Ty Burr Washington Post The film’s a necessary downer that nonetheless inspires in a viewer an echo of its heroine’s compassion and resolve. Rated: 3/4 May 2, 2025 Full Review Thelma Adams AARP Movies for Grownups The viewer feels, at the end, that it can’t happen here -- until it does. A final image of numerous fellow journalists felled in the pursuit of truth, including The Washington Post’s Jamal Khashoggi, drills the point home. Rated: 5/5 May 2, 2025 Full Review Nell Minow RogerEbert.com Peake’s listening face is profoundly moving, and she makes us see how Politkovskaya’s empathy is as important in gaining their trust as her commitment to telling the world what she is seeing. Rated: 3.5/4 May 2, 2025 Full Review Jackie K. Cooper jackiekcooper.com Good message, s,ow story. Rated: 5/10 May 13, 2025 Full Review Dennis Schwartz Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews Passably effective biopic on the late brave Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya. Rated: B May 13, 2025 Full Review Hugh Barnes The Arts Desk ...[Maxine] Peake here marvellously conveys an empathy and listening style that enabled Polikovskaya as a reporter to win the trust of Chechen civilians. Rated: 3/5 May 8, 2025 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

View All (17) audience reviews
Shannon P Tragic true-life tale about Russia's treatment of people in Chechnya and a journalist who became involved by documenting the crisis.. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 05/14/25 Full Review maria b The topic is super important and the main character is amazing, but the movie fails to get it right. Anna’s character feels flat, she was so much more in real life than what’s portrayed in the movie. The details don’t help getting the atmosphere of the Moscow or Chechnya, the events like the siege of that theater etc. It’s a great idea to draw more attention to the topic and Anna in particular, but the movie itself isn’t at the level that people will rush to see or want to recommend. Acting was so so as well. Honestly, would give a one star if not for the story that desperately needs more attention. Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 05/14/25 Full Review Jennifer W Important & moving story that everyone should see!! Great acting!!! Rated 5 out of 5 stars 05/09/25 Full Review Moody C There is hostage scene which is quite thrilling but rest of movie quite soporific and boring. Nothing we don’t alredy know: Those who oppose Putin will die. Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 05/06/25 Full Review Karen S “Words of War” is a powerful, urgent tribute to the frontline storytellers who risk—and too often lose—their lives in pursuit of truth. With an incredible cast that delivers deeply human, emotionally resonant performances, this film doesn’t just depict the dangers journalists face—it demands we pay attention to the growing threats against them. In a world where authoritarianism tightens its grip and disinformation spreads like wildfire, stories like this are more vital than ever. We need more films that bear witness, that refuse to let silence win. “Words of War” is not just a film—it’s a call to conscience. Rated 5 out of 5 stars 05/06/25 Full Review Melissa D The story of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya played by Maxine Peake, will leave you changed. Premiering the day before the UN's Press Freedom Day, the film takes you on a realistic journey alongside Politkovskaya as she risks everything to cover the second Chechen War. Politkovskaya was murdered in 2006 for reporting on Russian war crimes and atrocities in Chechnya. The film was shot beautifully with deliberate drone sequences and perfectly lit scenes that gave broad perspective to the narrative. A very strong cast including Jason Isaacs, and Ciaran Hinds grab you with their emotionally charged scenes. While this story occurred almost 20 years ago it remains unfortunately relevant today. The end of the film is strikingly poignant when the screen is filled with picture of the many journalists killed while pursuing the truth. Beautifully directed, this film will stay with you. A Powerful Story Rated 5 out of 5 stars 05/05/25 Full Review Read all reviews
Words of War

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Movie Info

Synopsis Based on a true story, WORDS OF WAR follows world-renowned journalist and human rights activist Anna Politkovskaya on her brave crusade, fighting to be an independent voice of truth for the Russian people, putting her own life in jeopardy despite numerous acts of intimidation and violence. While Anna was ultimately silenced, her legacy lives on and her story serves as a reminder of the dangers that journalists face and the importance of protecting their right to report the news without fear of death or reprisal.
Director
James Strong
Producer
Miriam Segal, Kia Jam, Mark Maxey, Paul Brennan
Screenwriter
Eric Poppen
Distributor
Amor Media
Production Co
Good Films Collective, Rolling Pictures
Rating
R
Genre
Drama, Mystery & Thriller
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
May 2, 2025, Limited
Runtime
1h 57m