Words of War

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Words of War

R

Released May 2

1h 57m

Drama

Mystery & Thriller

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Popcornmeter

75%

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24 Reviews

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Fewer than 50 Ratings

Based on a true story, WORDS OF WAR follows world-renowned journalist and human rights activist Anna Politkovskaya on her brave crusade, fighting to be an independent voice of truth for the Russian people, putting her own life in jeopardy despite numerous acts of intimidation and violence. While Anna was ultimately silenced, her legacy lives on and her story serves as a reminder of the dangers that journalists face and the importance of protecting their right to report the news without fear of death or reprisal.

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Kevin Maher

The Times (UK)

Still, it works. Peake is that good. Isaacs is also that good. And the subject is compelling and timely.

Rated: 3/5

Jul 2, 2025

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Mark Kermode

Kermode and Mayo's Take (YouTube)

The details of the material that was uncovered are just absolutely horrifying.

Jun 27, 2025

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Leslie Felperin

Guardian

The film deserves respect for the subject matter, even though this is a pretty basic rendition of Politkovskaya’s story, a little too sticky with hagiographic sentimentality and the cliches of crusading journalist-led movies.

Rated: 3/5

Jun 24, 2025

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Peter Bodie

Film Ireland Magazine

This is a film that’s definitely worth seeing and absorbing.

Jul 12, 2025

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Bobby LePire

Film Threat

Words of War is a solid drama about a remarkable woman.

Rated: 7.5/10

May 29, 2025

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Jackie K. Cooper

jackiekcooper.com

Good message, s,ow story.

Rated: 5/10

May 13, 2025

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Shannon P

Tragic true-life tale about Russia's treatment of people in Chechnya and a journalist who became involved by documenting the crisis..

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

05/14/25

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Rebecca W

This film gave me chills. Its historic significance is astoundingly timely. I cannot recommend it enough.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

07/22/25

Full Review

Pierre L

The United States appears to be on the precipice of becoming an authoritarian state. If you're not worried about that possibility you will be after seeing this movie. Our democracy is fragile and we must all do whatever we can to protect it. Seeing War of Words will most definitely help you to share in the courage Anna had to do just that.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

07/15/25

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Thomas M

Worth watching for the sake of knowing.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

06/28/25

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Cat C

This thriller is a terrific film with terrific performances! It's intense, powerful and devastatingly true. It made me marvel at every day people who somehow rise to the levels of bravery most people never come close to experiencing. I highly recommend it!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

06/28/25

Full Review

JCGCB S

“Words of War” is a gripping true story that highlights the immense bravery of ordinary people who refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice. Riveting, raw, and deeply moving, Anna Politkovskaya’s story is more urgent and timely than ever.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

06/28/25

Full Review

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James Strong

Director

Maxine Peake

Anna

Ciarán Hinds

Dmitry

Jason Isaacs

Sasha

Naomi Battrick

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Harry Lawtey

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Words of War: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

Based on a true story, WORDS OF WAR follows world-renowned journalist and human rights activist Anna Politkovskaya on her brave crusade, fighting to be an independent voice of truth for the Russian people, putting her own life in jeopardy despite numerous acts of intimidation and violence. While Anna was ultimately silenced, her legacy lives on and her story serves as a reminder of the dangers that journalists face and the importance of protecting their right to report the news without fear of death or reprisal.

Director: James Strong
Producer: Miriam Segal, Kia Jam, Mark Maxey, Paul Brennan
Screenwriter: Eric Poppen
Distributor: Amor Media
Production Co: Good Films Collective, Rolling Pictures
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Mystery & Thriller
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): May 2, 2025, Limited
Runtime: 1h 57m

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