The Post Praised as Spielberg's Comfort Watch

The film 'The Post,' released in 2017, is highlighted as a feel-good movie, with a writer praising Steven Spielberg's directorial prowess and the film's execution. The article positions Spielberg as a filmmaker more focused on the craft of moviemaking than overt political statements, contrasting him with contemporaries like Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas during the late 1960s. Despite this, the piece notes that Spielberg eventually addressed political themes in his later work, drawing parallels to contemporary political figures.

The writer describes 'The Post' as a display of "cosy competency porn," suggesting it offers a comforting viewing experience due to its skilled filmmaking. The film, which stars Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, centers on the true story of The Washington Post's decision to publish the Pentagon Papers in 1971, a collection of classified documents detailing the United States's involvement in the Vietnam War. Spielberg's direction is credited with bringing a sense of urgency and professionalism to the narrative, making the complex process of investigative journalism and the high stakes involved compelling for the audience.

Peter Biskind's book 'Easy Riders, Raging Bulls' is referenced to illustrate Spielberg's early career focus on technical aspects of filmmaking. An anecdote from the book recounts Spielberg's interest in camera techniques even during a politically charged period in 1968. This perspective frames 'The Post' not just as a political film, but as a testament to Spielberg's enduring ability to craft engaging cinema, even when tackling significant historical and political subject matter. The film's success is attributed to its ability to balance historical accuracy with cinematic tension, making it a standout in Spielberg's extensive filmography.