Warren Buffett's Must-See Movie: The Documentary Every American Should Watch

An Unexpected Recommendation from the Oracle of Omaha

Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, often shares invaluable insights on finance, business, and life. But at Berkshire Hathaway's 2025 annual meeting, alongside his widely-reported retirement announcement, he offered a different kind of gem: a movie recommendation. Buffett urged every American citizen to watch "Becoming Katharine Graham," a documentary about the groundbreaking publisher of The Washington Post.

Katharine Graham: More Than Just a Name

Who was Katharine Graham? She wasn't born into the role of a media titan. Quite the contrary, she inherited it after the tragic suicide of her husband. Suddenly, a woman who had largely played a supporting role found herself at the helm of one of America's most influential newspapers. The documentary explores her improbable journey from a shy housewife to a fearless leader who stood up to presidents and shaped the national conversation.

Buffett's Endorsement: Why It Matters

Buffett's endorsement isn't just a casual remark; it carries weight. He is known for his shrewd judgment and understanding of people and business. His recommendation signals that "Becoming Katharine Graham" offers valuable lessons about leadership, courage, and the importance of a free press. Consider it a masterclass in resilience, disguised as a biographical documentary.

The Documentary's Focus: A Pivotal Era in American History

The documentary, currently streaming on Amazon Prime, delves into the critical historical moments Graham navigated. Think about it: the Pentagon Papers, Watergate, and the Civil Rights Movement. These were turbulent times that tested the very fabric of American society, and The Washington Post, under Graham's leadership, played a crucial role in shaping these events. The film is more than a biography; it’s a gripping account of a nation grappling with its identity.

A Glimpse into History: Beyond the Headlines

Buffett, who was alive during these pivotal years, admitted that even he learned new things from the documentary. "There are a good many portions in there that I, who lived through that period, didn’t know about at that time. And I think every American citizen ought to watch it," he stated. This suggests the film offers a unique perspective, revealing behind-the-scenes details and nuances that may have been missed by the average observer at the time.

Lessons in Leadership: Graham's Unlikely Ascent

Overcoming Self-Doubt

Katharine Graham's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. Imagine inheriting a complex business with little experience, especially in a male-dominated industry. The documentary highlights her struggles with self-doubt and how she eventually found her voice and confidence. Her story is an inspiration to anyone facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.

The Power of Integrity

The Washington Post's coverage of Watergate is a prime example of journalistic integrity. Graham stood firm in her support of her reporters, despite immense pressure from the Nixon administration. This unwavering commitment to truth and accountability is a crucial lesson for leaders in any field.

Making Tough Decisions

Leading a major newspaper requires making difficult choices, often with significant consequences. The documentary likely explores the tough decisions Graham faced and the ethical considerations that guided her actions. Understanding how she navigated these situations offers valuable insights for anyone in a leadership role.

The Importance of a Free Press: A Timeless Message

In an era of "fake news" and media skepticism, the documentary's exploration of The Washington Post's role in holding power accountable is more relevant than ever. "Becoming Katharine Graham" serves as a reminder of the vital importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society.

More Than Just a Newspaper: The Washington Post's Impact

The Pentagon Papers: Exposing the Truth

The Washington Post's decision to publish the Pentagon Papers, despite legal threats from the government, was a defining moment in American journalism. The documentary likely explores the internal debates and the ethical considerations that led to this historic decision.

Watergate: Uncovering the Scandal

The Post's relentless investigation into the Watergate scandal ultimately led to President Nixon's resignation. This iconic story demonstrates the power of investigative journalism and the importance of holding those in power accountable. Katharine Graham's unwavering support of her reporters, Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, was crucial to the success of this investigation.

Buffett's Retirement: A New Chapter for Berkshire Hathaway

While Buffett's movie recommendation is noteworthy, it's impossible to ignore the elephant in the room: his impending retirement. This marks a significant turning point for Berkshire Hathaway. While no official date has been announced, the annual meeting served as a formal announcement of the transition.

What Does Buffett's Recommendation Say About Him?

Think about it: Buffett is recommending a documentary about a female leader who overcame adversity. Does this suggest he values resilience, integrity, and the power of a free press? Absolutely! His choice of film reveals his appreciation for strong leadership, regardless of gender, and his commitment to the principles of a well-informed society.

Why Should You Watch "Becoming Katharine Graham?"

Beyond Buffett's endorsement, the documentary offers a compelling narrative, historical insights, and valuable lessons in leadership. Whether you're interested in history, journalism, or simply looking for inspiration, "Becoming Katharine Graham" is a worthwhile watch.

Where to Watch: Accessing the Documentary

Currently, "Becoming Katharine Graham" is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. If you're a Prime member, you can watch it at no additional cost. If not, you can sign up for a free trial or rent/purchase the documentary.

Conclusion: A Timeless Story, A Powerful Message

"Becoming Katharine Graham" is more than just a biography; it's a compelling story of resilience, leadership, and the importance of a free press. Warren Buffett's endorsement serves as a powerful reminder of the film's significance and its relevance to all Americans. If you're looking for a documentary that will inform, inspire, and challenge your perspectives, this is it. So, take Buffett's advice and check it out – you might just learn something new about American history and the power of one remarkable woman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is "Becoming Katharine Graham" a biased documentary?

A: While the documentary celebrates Katharine Graham's accomplishments, it also attempts to provide a balanced perspective, acknowledging the challenges she faced and the complexities of her decisions. As with any biographical film, it's important to consider the source and potential biases.

Q: How long is the "Becoming Katharine Graham" documentary?

A: The documentary's runtime is approximately 90 minutes, making it an easy and engaging watch.

Q: Is this documentary suitable for all ages?

A: While the documentary doesn't contain explicit content, some themes, such as suicide and political corruption, may be sensitive for younger viewers. Parental guidance is recommended.

Q: Does the documentary focus solely on Watergate?

A: No, while Watergate is a significant part of the film, it also covers other important events in Katharine Graham's life and career, including the Pentagon Papers and her leadership during the Civil Rights Movement.

Q: What other documentaries would Warren Buffett recommend?

A: Warren Buffett is known to enjoy documentaries on business, history, and social issues. While he hasn't publicly recommended a specific list, exploring documentaries about the financial crisis, influential business leaders, and American history would likely align with his interests.