“No monsters, no bloodshed, but entirely thrilling nonetheless.”
-That Snow Ghost

This intense drama, based on the true story of discredited Washington D.C. journalist Stephen Glass, was one of the best (and most underrated) films of last year. Glass was a young staff writer for the respected, politically conservative magazine The New Republic in the mid ‘90’s. His pieces were both provocative and entertaining and he quickly rose to star status within the publication. He was also a sought-after freelance writer who contributed stories to Rolling Stone and Harper’s Bazaar among others. The only problem was that Glass made up the majority of his work, basically writing fiction in the guise of investigative journalism. How he was eventually caught is the focus of this intense drama - which painstakingly recreates the chain of events (and labyrinth of lies) involved in the infamous imbroglio.

The film begins with Glass (a surprisingly good Hayden Christensen) at the top of his game at The New Republic. A young writer at a magazine filled with youthful journalists, he comes across as endearing, eager to please and overly modest. During a meeting where Glass pitches an idea to the magazine staff, it’s clear that his charismatic delivery is appreciated as much as the proposal itself. His devoted co-workers include Caitlin (indie film queen Chloe Sevigny) and Amy (Melanie Lynskey from Heavenly Creatures), who belie their Ivey League intelligence with their blind school-girl allegiance to him. Editor Michael Kelly (Hank Azaria), is also quite taken by the energetic writer. When he calls to question a discrepancy in a piece written by Glass, their interaction is more of a father/son nature.

When Kelly is fired by the managing editor and replaced by fellow journalist Chuck Lane (Peter Sarsgaard), Glass’ fictional world comes crashing down upon him. Around the same time, a rival on-line publication begins to research a Glass article on computer hacking only to discover the entire piece is fictional. While Lane deals with his new position and a resentful staff, he also finds himself defending his star writer. Glass’ trajectory from office golden boy to deceitful hack plays out as true Shakespearean tragedy. Though no one officially dies within the drama, the writer’s deceit amongst his loyal co-workers is not unlike the death of a friend - and Ray’s expert storytelling makes the transition all the more palpable. While the entire cast is great, Sarsgaard is the true breakout star of the film. Watching his respectful yet detached demeanor slowly erode as Glass’ deceit continues to build is fascinating. When Lane presses the journalist to physically take him to a hotel where a supposed hacker convention took place, the tension between the two is almost unbearable. Though there is no sure protagonist in Shattered Glass, Lane (and his unshakable journalistic ethic) does ultimately become the film’s empathetic center.

Writer/director Billy Ray’s in-depth research and sharp writing bring the story to vivid life. Wisely approaching the material with an unbiased, detached manner (not unlike editor Lane) Shattered Glass is more a document of events than a character-driven drama. In spite of this, Ray manages to capture intricate, compelling performances from a great cast of indie players. (Steve Chelsea Walls Zahn and Rosario Dawson, though underutilized, are both good as a couple of net reporters who uncover the first of many fictional pieces by Glass.) What also makes this drama all the more gripping is that key people from the actual events were on hand to corroborate every detail. Editor Lane even contributes audio commentary (along with Ray) to discuss minute details; everything from Glass’ penchant for walking around the office in his socks to the layout of the Republic offices are covered. The only glaring omission is the real Glass’ point of view. Which might explain why his character remains an enigma throughout the proceedings. There is an interesting 60 Minutes interview that Glass gave that is included on the disc. And what is intimated throughout the film as his motivation (his insatiable need to be liked and respected) is actually supported by Glass himself.

This is an exceptional DVD release by Lions Gate, if for nothing else the wonderful commentary with the writer/director and Chuck Lane. Oddly enough, the DVD box doesn’t even list this as a special feature. Their take on the proceedings (both real life and on film) isn’t merely supplemental, it’s crucial in understanding the big picture. The only other bonus is the previously mentioned Glass interview, but it’s just as informative as the commentary and a must-see for anyone who appreciates the film. Shattered Glass is presented in its original widescreen 1.85:1 ratio, which nicely retains the smart composition by cinematographer Mandy Walker. The 5.1 Dolby Digital mix is strong and greatly enhances the near-invisible (and intentionally so) score by Mychael Danna.

Shattered Glass is independent film at its most complex and exciting. While the DVD release doesn’t offer a plethora of supplements, the few it includes are more than worthy of the film.