Director Billy Ray has a talent for depicting the seedy underbelly of the American establishment. His work as a writer, including 2005’s Flightplan and 2002’s Hart’s War, has breathed some new life into the action and thriller genres, incorporating government conspiracies and big-name actors while still managing to make some salient observations about American culture.
In 2003, his directorial debut, Shattered Glass, examined the world of newspaper journalism and the fabrication scandals that have plagued the industry of late. Ray (who initially intended to study journalism as an undergraduate) adapted the story of D.C. journalist Stephen Glass from a Vanity Fair article of the same name. The movie went on to grab four Independent Spirit Award nominations, solidifying the writer-director’s status in the film industry.
After returning to screenwriting for a few years, Ray is back in the director’s chair overseeing Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe and Laura Linney in Universal Pictures’ Breach (in theaters February 16). Based on a true story, the film follows new F.B.I. recruit Eric O’Neill (Phillippe). When he suspects his boss (Cooper) of treason, he must decide what to do and where to turn for the good of the nation. Next up, Ray is slated to write and direct 2008’s Hurricane Season, which looks at a high school football team’s struggle to rebuild their community in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
Sound Off: Whether it’s a terrifying plane ride after September 11 or the machinations of a corrupt government, with each new film Billy Ray presents his audience with interesting dilemmas drawn from real-world situations. Is it problematic to turn these modern-day fears into big-budget entertainment? Talk back in the comments section!
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