OFFICIAL SECRETS Keira Knightly as Whistle-Blower of Info to Halt 2003 Iraqi War

OFFICIAL SECRETS I(2019) now screening on Netflix, is a biographical drama based on the true story of Katherine Gun, a British intelligence specialist who leaked a top-secret memo in 2003 exposing corruption intended to justify the US and Britain. The memo identified coercion to obtain concessions from various countries as required to initiate the invasion into the Iraq War. Ironically, it seems trifling in comparison to Trump's illegal, self-declared war in Iran that has now lasted six months. Still, it's illuminating to see how many undercover organizations are routinely spying on one other's top-secret communications. Keira Knightly (PIRATES) as Gun, the seemingly altruistic whistle-blower is motivated by her goal of "stopping an illegal war that leads to countless casualties and injuries." Knightly is affecting as the heroine willing to risk prison time. Though, little thought is given to cynicism towards Gun's courageous and selfless actions which is fair game to question this claim to fame and notoriety. Her legal counselor played by the indomitable Ralph Fiennes (quickly dismisses the idea that her motives are not as she claims. Fiennes brings legal and moral finesse to this film that otherwise gets dragged down in its mundane handling of Gun's gathering and dispensing classified information and the cliched, behind the scenes news reporting story. However, adding their acting talents as journalists, thus providing some intrigue and gravitas to journalistic integrity when verifying leads and facts are Matthew Good (The CROWN) and Matt Smith (also of The CROWN). Perhaps, looking back at the clandestine and covert  events of Pres. George W. Bush and Sec. Powell and viewing Bush's personal vendetta for getting back "...at the the guy who tried to kill his dad" and his aim to demonstrate  "his decisive leadership" makes this historic event seem tame and dated. Not withstanding the predictable plot, there's credible acting by its excellent cast.  Moreover, it serves as a significant reminder of the times and events that get repeated with future leaders and politicians that are thoroughly corrupt, self-serving and dangerous. Not only are whistle-blowers essential to a free society, so too are untampered court systems, free speech and the dismantling of apathy. Should these not be safe guarded, there would be plenty to fear at what would be lost.