The trailer for the movie "Richard Jewell" was released recently -- to say the story is riveting, captivating and ultimately, disheartening, is an understatement.
For those who do not know, according to wikipedia, "Richard Allensworth Jewell (born Richard White; December 17, 1962 – August 29, 2007) was an American police officer and security guard. While working as a security guard for AT&T, he became known in connection with the Centennial Olympic Park bombing at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia."
"Discovering a backpack filled with three pipe bombs on the park grounds, Jewell alerted police and helped to evacuate the area before the bomb exploded, saving many people from injury or death. Initially hailed by the media as a hero, Jewell was later considered a suspect, before ultimately being cleared. Jewell's case is considered an example of the damage that can be done by media based on bias."
This movie, at least from the trailer, appears to provide an accurate account of Jewell's heroic actions, but also indirectly, counters much of the negativity that exists for security professionals -- the constant criticism, the Paul Blart jokes, being called "rent-a-cops." You know the drill.
It also highlights the firestorm of "Trial by media," kicked off by a mere matchstick of suspicion that should have been kept confidential by investigators. Jewell's vilification could be viewed as a precursor to such modern media phenomenon as "fake news" and the "cancel culture."
Security industry-wise, this movie comes at a pivotal point in the United States and the globe, as in the years to come, it is expected that security professionals will play an even larger role in law enforcement. At one point in the movie, Jewell even says, "I'm law enforcement too." Take a look at the number of police officers decreasing versus the increase in security officers, the expanded functions of security officers and hence, the greater need for education, certification and training.
In addition, the movie was directed by Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood and is packed with A-list actors like Sam Rockwell, Cathy Bates and Jon Hamm, with the title character portrayed by relative unknown Paul Walter Hauser. In addition, it's produced by, among others, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill. What that all means is that there is a good chance the story will told well, acting- and budget-wise.
-- IFPO.
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Mission Statement Part I.
The International Foundation for Protection Officers provides professional learning opportunities for security practitioners, to impart the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to maximize job performance and enhance career potential.
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Mission Statement Part II.
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