The Wasteland Reviewer

Disclosure Day (2026) Written Review

Why is Steven Spielberg one of the greatest filmmakers of all time? Many will label him as a populist filmmaker who knows how to make blockbuster films that work so well for so many. But Spielberg is one of the most talented auteur filmmakers to ever do it. Not only that, but he has also been doing it for literal decades. The quality hasn’t been as consistent in the 21st century but his most recent films are quite incredible (with his West Side Story and his most personal story in The Fabelmans). But Spielberg just might have his most impactful and poignant film in decades coming to the big screen with Disclosure Day. 

Does Spielberg still have it behind the camera? This is one of the most engaging cinematic experiences so far this year and shows that Spielberg is still working on a different level compared to so many filmmakers. From the opening scene, you get the visual styling of the film perfectly. Janusz Kaminski (along with Patrick Capone) delivers a cinematic experience full of lens flares, crisp detail, and a distinct perspective with lighting. You have visuals that are reminiscent of Minority Report and A.I. Artificial Intelligence with some impressive effects that bring the alien elements of the film to life. Spielberg might need to lean into CGI for certain elements of the film but there are so many great practical effects throughout the film. This is a film that is close to 2.5 hours, but it moves so perfectly as Spielberg understands how to pace this espionage thriller so perfectly. The most important element that Spielberg brings to this film is that tone that Spielberg has perfected. There is a scene in this film that is profoundly wondrous and completely terrifying at the same time. The film is jam-packed with tension from start to finish which makes the thriller elements of this film so effective. There are some good elements of humor that fit well with the characters and situations that make sense (it never feels forced). But there is something so deeply moving and powerful that Spielberg accomplishes. The final moments of this film are so powerful that it will draw tears from how profound it is. It might not be the freshest scores in his career, but John Williams delivers another great score that matches so perfectly the emotions and feelings that Spielberg is attempting to draw out. 

What is the story behind this latest effort from Spielberg? Written by one of Spielberg’s most frequent and successful writing collaborators, David Koepp, Disclosure Day is an intriguing genre-mixture that is quite profound. One of the most successful elements of Koepp screenplay is the use of mystery. Every film is a mystery in some fashion as you learn new information about the story, narrative, and characters. Koepp takes this approach with the whole film. The audience is dropped into a tense and uncomfortable situation, and the film slowly reveals the details of the narrative, story, and conflict by peeling back layers in an engaging and impactful way. The film leverages its espionage structure and packaging to deliver a deeply profound story about humanity, its place in the universe, and how we would process information that could fundamentally change our perspective on existence. The thriller and science fiction element congeal so well, allowing for an engaging and thrilling experience. The thematic work is quite compelling and thoughtful. The film reckons with religion and where aliens would fit into this world view. The two main characters are saddled with unique and profoundly dynamic sets of abilities that explore human nature including empathy and communication. All the little details of this experience are thoughtful and meaningful. The film balances thrilling action set pieces, tense thriller elements, and some deeply affecting science fiction elements that open the door to deeply affecting character moments. The film gives meaning to each of the characters and their place in this great story makes perfect sense. By the time the credits roll, you will feel deeply satisfied with the journey that Koepp and Spielberg take you on. 

Does this talented cast bring the goods to make Spielberg and Koepp’s work? Emily Blunt just might deliver the best performance of her career. Her character begins with a charismatic and quirky presence that soon gives way to the wave of fear, love, and a sense of wonder. There is so much vulnerability that Blunt portrays in this harrowing performance. Her small acting choices with her face and her eyes make this experience so impactful. Josh O’Connor makes for an engaging and empathetic lead who is also saddled with plenty of vulnerability, fear, and overwhelming feelings. O’Connor’s Daniel is an impressively driven individual, and he captures that unrelenting drive pitch perfectly. Eve Hewson is Jane, Daniel’s partner, who must sell so much with looks and facial expressions as she grapples with her faith and the truth that Daniel has presented her with. There is an intriguing sci-fi element in the film involving body control with alien technology and that is forced upon Jane quite a few times. The physicality that Hewson delivers with that is quite impressive (along with some terrifying stares through her possessed state). Colin Firth is the antagonist of this film and Firth’s veteran presence makes him quite intimidating. But what is most important is the sense of vulnerability and pain behind the characterization. Colman Domingo is saddled with most of the expositional dialogue, but his charisma and voice make those lines of dialogue go down smoothly. He sells a few scenes in this film with his sheer presence and that is why you hire Domingo. Wyatt Russell is a good addition as the comic relief character who is the partner to Blunt’s Margaret. 

Are you ready for a truly powerful and profound cinematic experience? Spielberg has you. The confidence and prowess of Spielberg allow this expertly written film to soar. There is a tidal wave of wonder and emotion that rushes over you. The performances are strong along with all the technical aspects of the film (including Williams’ score). Disclosure Day is a timely and powerful cinematic expression that features a game-changing revelation that could unite humanity in a truly unique and profound way. Spielberg most definitely still has it.