Product: The Insider [VHS] (1999)
Rating: 5.0
A classic for all time
One of the most important stories of the 20th century.It didn't just change 'big tobacco'. It changed corporate ethics. Just look at the more ethical behaviour of 'big alcohol' today and you can trace its roots to the story of The Insider. It is an education to everyone in business. The events re-established the independence and proper role of the press as one of the pillars of civilised society.Consumers world wide owe a great debt to Dr. Geoffrey Wigand, (the whistle blower) and Lowell Bergman, (the 60 Minutes producer). Two men who put their careers, even their lives on the line for an ethical principle and in defence of society. There are few such men or women. Their example should be emulated by all.One of the best films of the 20th century. Such a story deserves excellence in its telling. Sharpe, it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Appropriately dramatised, the characterisation is convincing. This is not just a simple linear story, but multi-layered. To see the layers you need to watch it more than once. One layer missed by most reviewers is the contrast between the wives of the two men. One understanding and supporting, the other self-interested. The inevitable consequences are shown. How true to life we do not know, but that back story is worthy of its inclusion. If you want to learn the craft of story telling, be it in print radio or film, then learn from The Insider. Thanks to Michael Mann, Russell Crow and Al Pacino for its brilliant telling.This is a story that should be known world-wide. A film that should be watched world-wide again and again. It is perfection is social education. A griping tale that teaches us all how to behave.Dr. Wigand and Mr. Bergman, I salute you.just Jack