‘Ink’ Review: Danny Boyle’s Dizzying Tabloid Story Charts Rupert Murdoch’s Race to the Bottom

Danny Boyle’s latest feature, “Ink,” throws viewers headfirst into the world of Rupert Murdoch and Larry Lamb’s ascent in the cutthroat world of tabloid journalism. With a maximalist approach, the film doesn’t skimp on style, drawing from various influences to craft a frenetic, sensational narrative. The story delves into the origins of modern tabloid culture, exploring how it all began with a chance encounter in a London bar.

The centerpiece of the movie is the unlikely partnership between Murdoch (played by Guy Pearce) and Lamb (played by Jack O’Connell), whose contrasting backgrounds and moral compasses lead them down a path of escalating sensationalism. While Murdoch’s character exudes charm and power, Lamb’s journey is marked by moral ambiguity and personal struggle.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to capture the essence of tabloid culture, from the use of exploitative tactics to the relentless pursuit of breaking news. However, the constant back-and-forth between Lamb and Murdoch’s rivalry can become exhausting, with Boyle’s rapid-fire editing style blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Despite these shortcomings, Boyle’s vision of the past three decades of tabloid journalism is undeniably compelling. The film’s portrayal of the moral compromises made by both figures is especially noteworthy, as it forces viewers to confront the blurred lines between truth and sensationalism. Ultimately, “Ink” is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power.

It serves as a stark reminder of how easily we can lose sight of our values in the pursuit of fame and fortune.