Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Tom Hanks | ... | Captain Kidd | |
![]() |
Steve Boyles | ... | Freighter |
Helena Zengel | ... | Johanna | |
Tom Astor | ... | Cavalry Lieutenant | |
![]() |
John Travis Johnson | ... | Cavalry Rider |
Andy Kastelic | ... | Union Duty Officer | |
Ray McKinnon | ... | Simon Boudlin | |
Mare Winningham | ... | Doris Boudlin | |
Jeffrey Ware | ... | Red River Heckler | |
Chris Bylsma | ... | Red River Heckler | |
![]() |
Justin Tade | ... | Red River Heckler |
Darrin Giossi | ... | Federal Soldier | |
Brenden Wedner | ... | Young Progressive Speaker | |
Elizabeth Marvel | ... | Mrs. Gannett | |
Michael Angelo Covino | ... | Almay |
Five years after the end of the Civil War, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd (Tom Hanks), a veteran of three wars, now moves from town to town as a non-fiction storyteller, sharing the news of presidents and queens, glorious feuds, devastating catastrophes, and gripping adventures from the far reaches of the globe. On the plains of Texas, he crosses paths with Johanna (Helena Zengel), a 10-year-old taken in by the Kiowa people six years earlier and raised as one of their own. Johanna, hostile to a world she's never experienced, is being returned to her biological aunt and uncle against her will. Kidd agrees to deliver the child where the law says she belongs. As they travel hundreds of miles into the unforgiving wilderness, the two will face tremendous challenges of both human and natural forces as they search for a place that either can call home. Written by Universal Pictures
It may not be as fast-paced as the usual Paul Greengrass thriller, but 'News of the World' is still a gripping adventure, built around characters that audiences will care about. It is a robust, beautifully shot drama, and while little unexpected transpires, the characters are so richly drawn and their travels so wonderfully realized. Tom Hanks is as expected, a warm and welcome presence that holds the whole film together. His co-star, Helena Zengel, is amazingly good. Their organic chemistry is the heart of 'News of the World.'