Cast
View AllKate Beckinsale
as Rachel Armstrong
Matt Dillon
as Patton Dubois
Alan Alda
as Alan Burnside
Vera Farmiga
as Erica van Doren
Noah Wyle
as Avril Aaronson
Angela Bassett
as Bonnie Benjamin
David Schwimmer
as Ray Armstrong
Floyd Abrams
as Judge Hall
Courtney B. Vance
as Agent O'Hara
Preston Bailey
as Timmy Armstrong
Kristen Bough
as Allison van Doren
Merle Dandridge
as Celia
Kelly Holleman
as Sun Times Clerk
Julie Ann Emery
as Agent Boyd
Kristen Shaw
as Angel
Crew
Director
- Rod Lurie
Producer
- Rod Lurie
- Marc Frydman
- Bob Yari
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Nothing But the Truth examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Rod Lurie brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Nothing But the Truth took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $11.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Nothing But the Truth shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Point of No Return, which focuses more on action than character development, Nothing But the Truth subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Half Nelson and Clear and Present Danger explore similar territory, Nothing But the Truth stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 19, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $11,500,000
- Revenue: $409,832
Where to Watch



