Richard Jewell – Review

This “based on a true story” film focuses on the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park bombing in Atlanta and the fallout surrounding one of the key figures. The bombing was an international affair, which killed two and injured more than 10 others, however could have been much worse.

Richard Jewell (Hauser), a somewhat goofy but well-intentioned individual is working security for the event, and taking it extremely seriously. Jewell notes a backpack left unattended near a bench by his post, immediately told superiors, and kept a small perimeter. While the device does go off, the crowd was primarily disbursed and the tragedy was minimized.

While Jewell is hailed as a hero initially, his strange way of processing things and speaking does him no favors, despite having noble intentions and being relatively genuine. As the media and authorities begin to dig into the event, they also dig into Richard, dragging him into the focus of the bombing.

This movie is exceptionally well done. It is a fantastic drama, and retelling of a man’s story during a traumatic event of insane actions. Human nature and jumping to conclusions are on full display and is the topic of Eastwood’s story of behavioral exploration.

The titular Jewell is expertly played by Hauser; however, the seasoned supporting cast is also great. The movie brings tension and emotion to the explosive event and surrounding wake caused in the lives of many. The script is excellent and the direction tight, resulting in the best Eastwood film of the last decade.