Defense of the Realm (1985)

Synopsis of Defense of the Realm

This fast-paced thriller examines the amorality of a nation's secret services and the responsibility of journalistic investigations in an era of nuclear tensions and bureaucratic deceit. The film examines an unspooling series of events occurring after a near crash of a nuclear bomber at an American Air Force base in the English countryside. When Dennis Markham (Ian Bannen), a well-respected member of Parliament, is reported by a London paper to have been seen leaving a woman's home, and the woman is found to also be familiar with a dignitary from East Germany, his loyalty to his country is questioned, and he is forced to resign. The author of the newspaper exposé, Nick Mullen (Gabriel Byrne), continues his investigation with his colleague Vernon Bayliss (Denholm Elliott). But when Vernon dies from a mysterious heart attack, Mullen suspects something deeper at work and finds evidence of a complex web of deceit concerning a secret Air Force base. With the help of Vernon's secretary, Nina Beckman (Greta Scacchi), Nick fights the dark forces in order to bring the truth to light. ~ Paul Brenner, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:

96 mins

Director(s):

David Drury

Writer(s):

Martin Stellman

Producer(s):

David Puttnam, Lynda Myles, Robin Douet

Theatrical MPAA Rating:

PG(Adult Language, Suitable for Children, Mild Violence, Brief Nudity)

Categories:

Mystery & Suspense

• 1985 - British Academy of Film and Television Arts - Best Supporting Actor

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