THE INSIDER
In The Insider, Michael Mann examines a number of issues related to ethics and integrity that can appropriately be included in the broader theme of professionalism. The film tells the very real story of Dr. Jeffrey Wigand, a high-level scientist who worked for a big tobacco company. Dr. Wigand, played by Russell Crowe, willingly violates his nondisclosure agreement and testifies about the scientifically proven and documented ill effects of smoking cigarettes. His willingness to testify effectively puts a bullseye on his back and the tobacco company tries to ruin his life because of the harm his testimony would do to their practices.
Because the gravity and implications of his testimony are so significant (financially, medically, and legally) Wigand asks for help in sharing his information in the right way. He is put in touch with Lowell Bergman, a producer for CBS's 60 Minutes, played by Al Pacino. Throughout the course of The Insider, Bergman spends a lot of time and energy talking with and listening to Wigand because he is a good journalist who believes the story is important - he's a professional. He works to both earn Wigand's trust and protect him as much as possible as they work to disclose the damning information.
In many ways, Wigand represents a sort of redemptive take on the notion of professionalism. He has willingly practiced science for a company that profits off of a knowingly damaging product, primarily because of the wages it provided. But, with a lot of coaxing from Bergman, he determines the true right thing to do is speak out, no matter what the personal consequences are. However, despite going on record with specific details that would incriminate the tobacco companies in the court of public opinion and perhaps also the judicial system, CBS hangs Wigand out to dry by not airing his complete interview. Because Bergman is serious about his work, committed to the story, and committed to his source, he outraged. Nevertheless, The Insider demonstrates that even when professionals do the right thing, they are not always sure it was the right thing to do.