The Pentagon Papers (2003): cast, story & where to watch
2003 · Film · ★ 5.8
Released in 2003, The Pentagon Papers is a thriller, drama and history film directed by Rod Holcomb, running about 92 minutes. “His greatest act of patriotism was an act of treason.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. This compelling political drama is based on the true story of high-ranking Pentagon official Daniel Ellsberg, who, during the Nixon era, strove to preserve American democracy by leaking top-secret documents to the New York Times and Washington Post. The documents in question would eventually become famous as the Pentagon Papers, which revealed the true reasons for U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
Who’s in it. The Pentagon Papers stars James Spader as Daniel Ellsberg, Claire Forlani as Patricia Marx, Paul Giamatti as Anthony Russo and Alan Arkin as Harry Rowen, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.8/10, The Pentagon Papers has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Pentagon Papers page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Pentagon Papers tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Pentagon Papers (2003)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Pentagon Papers change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Pentagon Papers worth watching?
- The Pentagon Papers holds an audience score of 5.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller, drama and history. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Pentagon Papers?
- The Pentagon Papers stars James Spader, Claire Forlani, Paul Giamatti, Alan Arkin and Kenneth Welsh.
- When was The Pentagon Papers released?
- The Pentagon Papers was released in 2003, with a runtime of about 92 minutes.