(made-for-tv movie; aired 4/30/97 on CBS)

An unsympathetic look at the television news media, Bruce Greenwood plays Jake Slaughter, the charismatic star reporter of Focus, a prime time news show that prides itself on exposés. The story unfolds from the viewpoint of the show's newest producer, Alison Reid (top billed Jane Seymour), who receives information from an old friend that a high profile candidate for President (played by Greenwood's old Knots Landing costar William Devane), has a history of sexual misconduct that’s been kept carefully under raps. Sharing only part of the story with her staff, her position becomes compromised when she leaks additional information to Jake with whom she’s become sexually involved. Shallow and ambitious, Jake sets out to get the scoop, and his callous methods not only undermine his affair with Alison, but destroy a witness' life, as well.

Bruce Greenwood is perfectly cast as the opportunistic anchor Jake. In looks, voice and mannerisms, he could easily be conducting interviews for 60 Minutes or 20/20. Yet nothing is straightforward with Jake. While exuding confidence and honesty publicly, he uses his handsome looks and silky voice to manipulate the people around him mercilessly.

This admirable tv film was produced by and stars Seymour, who - at the time - was enjoying a long run on CBS as the pious Dr. Quinn. Her reputation as the good and valiant doctor somewhat softens her hard-nosed journalist, and even prompted CBS officials to censor the more explicit love scenes with Greenwood, which were directed by Seymour's own husband, James Keach. The film has something significant to say though, and it’s Greenwood’s character who pulls that message together. Although Jake fully realizes why Alison’s left him, he’s too honest with himself not to see that their show is all about ratings and "selling toothpaste."

Filmed in Toronto, Canada, the movie was originally scheduled for October 1996, but its subject matter was deemed too controversial for an election year so its airing was held back for the May sweeps where it encountered a media frenzied episode of Ellen and ended up being seen by few, which is a shame, because even though it's a flawed movie, it's a good one and includes a very fine and multi-leveled performance from Greenwood.

Although this title is often shown on television it's never been released officially as a video or DVD.

Catfish Productions in association with CBS

Sound Files from The Absolute Truth

		A speech for journalists	28 secs
		It's who I am	13 secs
		A reporter's bed talk	1 min
		We sold a lot of toothpaste	28 secs