Seymour Hersh: A Documentary Portrait in "Cover-Up"

“Cover-Up,” directed by Laura Poitras and Mark Obenhaus, is a documentary that chronicles the career of investigative journalist Seymour Hersh. The film, which began production in early 2023, features a blend of archival footage, Hersh's personal notes, and extensive interviews, showcasing his significant contributions to American journalism over six decades. The documentary highlights Hersh's role in exposing critical events, including the My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War, the Watergate scandal, and the abuse of prisoners at Abu Ghraib.

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The documentary adopts a chronological narrative, beginning with Hersh's early work and progressing through his most impactful stories. It opens with a recounting of the 1968 Dugway Proving Ground incident, where a military nerve agent killed over 6,000 sheep, setting the stage for Hersh's commitment to investigative journalism as a check on government power. The film features insights from notable figures such as Daniel Ellsberg and Bob Woodward, who provide context and commentary on Hersh's work and its implications for democracy and accountability.

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Poitras and Obenhaus conducted 42 interviews with Hersh, capturing his often combative yet trusting demeanor. The filmmakers aim to present a balanced portrayal of Hersh, acknowledging both his achievements and the challenges he faced in his career. Poitras, known for her previous work on Edward Snowden, and Obenhaus, an Emmy-winning producer, bring their expertise to create a compelling narrative that emphasizes the importance of investigative journalism.

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While "Cover-Up" is largely an admiring portrayal of Hersh, it does not shy away from the controversies surrounding his reporting. Critics may argue that Hersh's methods and conclusions have sometimes been contentious, raising questions about the reliability of his sources and the implications of his findings. However, the documentary primarily focuses on the impact of his work rather than delving deeply into these criticisms.

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In the film, President Richard Nixon's voice-over reflects on Hersh's reporting, acknowledging the journalist's credibility despite his contentious nature. This sentiment is echoed by other journalists and figures in the documentary, who recognize Hersh's role in holding power accountable.

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As of late 2025, Seymour Hersh continues to write and engage with contemporary issues, including recent geopolitical events. His ongoing work, now published on Substack, reflects his enduring commitment to investigative journalism and the pursuit of truth.

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• “I mean, the son of a bitch is a son of a bitch, but he’s usually right, isn’t he?” — President Richard Nixon

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• “Cover-Up” is a model of efficient, engaging documentary filmmaking; it looks good, for starters, and it moves energetically. — Review Commentary

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In conclusion, "Cover-Up" serves as both a tribute to Seymour Hersh's storied career and a reminder of the vital role investigative journalism plays in a democratic society. The documentary invites viewers to reflect on the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in their quest for truth.

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