Sean Penn’s Thriller ‘Words of War’ Hits Theaters This May!

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“Sean Penn’s politically-charged thriller, titled ‘Words of War,’ is set to hit cinemas nationwide on May 2.”

James Strong’s upcoming movie, titled “Rolling Pictures and Decal,” has finally set a release date, and an official poster has been unveiled. Known for his work on “Broadchurch” and “Vigil,” Strong is directing the film, while California-14 Representative Eric Swalwell serves as an executive producer.

The film ‘Words of War’ is inspired by real-life events, portraying Anna Politkovskaya’s courageous struggle as a renowned journalist and human rights advocate. She stood firm as an unyielding voice for truth amidst the Russian populace, risking her own life in the face of numerous threats and acts of violence. Tragically, Politkovskaya was silenced, but her legacy endures. Her story serves as a powerful warning about the perils faced by journalists and underscores the necessity of upholding their freedom to report news fearlessly, without fear of reprisal or death.

Penn stated, “”Words of War’ is a heartfelt homage to Anna Politkovskaya and journalists worldwide, who bravely report on brutal conflicts and critically challenge oppressive leaders, safeguarding our liberties. He further explained, “The film excels as cinema and its narrative will captivate you, while also serving as a profound reflection on how we can redefine our purpose, understanding the role our voices must play. Just as Anna emphasized, ‘there’s no worth apart from truth.’

Mark Maxey, the producer, commented, “Every journalist ought to be free to share global events without worrying about harm or retaliation. In today’s world where truth is constantly challenged, journalists act as our final safeguard. It isn’t merely a responsibility to shield them; it’s a battle for freedom itself.

The movie’s premiere has been set for World Press Freedom Day, which is recognized by the United Nations. In the ensuing months, Decal will manage the distribution of the film for home viewing.

This production features Maxine Peake (known from “The Theory of Everything” and “The Village”), Ciarán Hinds (from “Belfast” and “Game of Thrones”), Jason Isaacs (“White Lotus”), Ian Hart (“Backbeat”), Ellie Bamber (“Nocturnal Animals”), Harry Lawtey (“Joker: Folie à Deux”), Sophie Simnett (“Daybreak”), and Ben Miles (“Andor”). In simpler terms, a diverse group of talented actors including Maxine Peake, Ciarán Hinds, Jason Isaacs, Ian Hart, Ellie Bamber, Harry Lawtey, Sophie Simnett, and Ben Miles are part of this project.

The film was written by Eric Poppen (“Borderland”).

Every year on May 3rd, I join millions worldwide in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, a day established by the U.N. General Assembly in December 1993 based on UNESCO’s recommendation. This significant date marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek and serves as a powerful reminder to governments everywhere about their responsibility to uphold press freedom. As part of the media community, I take this day to reflect upon issues concerning press freedom and ethical practices within our profession. It is a chance for us to champion the essential principles of press freedom, evaluate its current state globally, safeguard our independence, and honor fallen journalists who made the ultimate sacrifice in their line of duty.

Representative Swalwell, who is leading the initiative for S.1412 Journalist Protection Act 118 Cong. (2023) – a law that would penalize intentionally harming journalists with the goal of silencing them in their work – stated, “You may not have to give up your life as Anna did, but if you can emulate her resilience, persistently challenge boundaries and relentlessly seek the truth, then I assure you, we will prevail.

Good Films Collective and Rolling Pictures are also producers on the film.

The executive team for this project comprises Penn, Stefanie Scott, Rick Crumly, Eric Swalwell, Paul Mandell, the Bells (Alexandra and David), Simon Fawcett, Jonathan Taylor, Brian Crist, Andrew Wing, Grant Johnson, Brett Nemeroff, Ashley and William Akridge, John Pettit, Norman Merry, and Peter Hampden. Additionally, Teresa and Robert Valencia, Richard Schnase, Craig Albrecht, and Tracy Hannah are serving as co-executive producers.

Concourse Media has obtained global rights for “Words of War” and is showcasing this movie to foreign distributors during the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin.

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2025-02-18 21:21