For years women working in the film industry or ones who would cross paths with Harvey Weinstein, the famous producer and creator of Miramax, lived in fear. As a known abuser amongst the members of the Hollywood scene, Harvey Weinstein continually abused, harassed, and subsequently silenced women. The efforts of many were in vain when faced with payouts and non-Disclosures.  

The movie She Said follows the story of the two reporters who were finally able to bring the stories of Harvey’s victims to the public, sparking public outrage and eventually Harvey’s arrest. It is directed by Maria Schrader. Jodie Kantor, played by Zoe Kazan, was the first to take this story on for the New York Times. She began with leads from rumors nameless women harmed by a Hollywood fixture. Jodie was able to reach some victims, but none were eager to speak.  

Megan Twohey, played by Carey Mulligan, was a fellow journalist at The Times who covered many stories like Harvey Weinstein’s, including a piece on Donald Trump and his actions against women leading up to his election. Looking for her next big story Megan and Jodie join forces. With renewed hope the two pursue new leads and begin to contact victims and achieve some success in hearing their experiences. Big names like Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd, as well personal assistants and stagehands are contacted. Intimidation attempts are repeated from Harvey’s lawyer, and late-night phone calls from anonymous voices. As their story begins to take shape, Jodie and Megan must work around naming the victims because of fear or restrictive NDAs from settlements. Finally, actress Ashley Judd gives Jodie and Megan permission to use her name, sparking the other women to release their names. This gives the story the final credibility it needs, and the story is published, much to Weinstein’s chagrin. Here the movie concludes with the after affects that this article had in real life, 82 victims and counting came forward, and Harvey faced justice. 

This film had strong actors who were able to give the story justice. The shocking reveal of Harvey’s behavior to the public in 2017 is shown is this movie more in depth and the struggle it took to get there. Continuing to grow the conversation around the systemic mistreatment of women is incredibly important. This movie contributed a great deal to the public understanding of complex topics like sexual harassment and violence. I would recommend that anyone and everyone watches this film as reading article is not as impactful as watching the pain portrayed and rectified in the movie.  

She Said earned 5 out of 5 shields.