The Fifth Estate
Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Daniel Bruhl, Carice van Houten, Alicia Vikander
WikiLeaks’ founder Julian Assange has been at the center of several controversial leaks of classified and secret information. The nonprofit organization and its founder are the topics explored in The Fifth Estate. Whether you agree or disagree with the organization’s tactics, this is a fascinating tale and Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a crisp performance as Assange. Indeed, with the level of intrigue, mystery and drama that surround the company and its leader, it’s a wonder Hollywood waited this long to plunder the story, given that the company was started in 2006, a lifetime ago in Internet terms. Reportedly, Assange has taken issue with the film’s veracity. Not surprising. –p.d. lee
