This sadly derivative film has one too many screenings of All the President's Men written all over it.

The story gives audiences an inside look at how journalism actually works at ground level, including the cultivation of sources, the use of "background" and off-the-record information. It has a strong feel of authenticity.

At its best, Shock and Awe still feels like it strains to be Spotlight-lite and comes up lacking. The title is a misnomer.

Movie has its heart in the right place but isn't angry or intrepid enough.