“News of the World” is a historical drama which tells the story of Captain Jefferson Kidd (Tom Hanks), a Civil War veteran who travels from town to town through the midwest, sharing World News to the townspeople who can’t read the local newspapers.

While traveling in Texas, Kidd meets Johanna (Helena Zengel), a 10 year-old girl who was raised by Kinowa Indians for six years after her family was killed and she was kidnapped. Now, the government wants to return her to her aunt and uncle, and Kidd reluctantly agrees to escort her across the plains to her new home. Along the way, Johanna and Kidd brave the rough wilderness, and while they at first struggle to get along, they slowly develop a system of communication with each other and a strong bond forms between them. The pair eventually accept each other as family, and Kidd learns to move on from his past losses and accept that he doesn’t have to be lonely forever.

The story itself is a beautiful tale about loss and loneliness, and the dynamics between the characters are well depicted through the dialogue and interactions which occur. The amazing writing is coupled with a brilliant execution. The cinematography is artistic and the sound track helps to accentuate the feeling of the movie. The acting is also impressive: not only does Tom Hanks provide an amazing performance, but Helena Zengel proves herself as a budding young actress, giving a captivating depiction of a complicated character. 

 “News of the World” excels best in its historical accuracy which it uses to depict the time period it is set in. While the way some minorities are treated would not be reasonable or acceptable today, in the film their treatment is representative of the way society was. The interactions and events all make sense for Post-Civil war Midwest. The sets are covered with dust and dirt, and so are the faces of the actors and the clothes they wear— all components which add to the authentic feel of this movie. While historical accuracy is not a necessity for movies, its use in “News of the World” adds a sincerity to the story being told and makes the experience even more enjoyable.

“News of the World” is a movie worth seeing for anyone who enjoys beautiful storytelling, historical dramas, talented acting, or anyone who just wants to watch a serious yet uplifting film.