Step into the intense and powerful world of Spotlight (2015), the gripping drama based on the true story of how a team of investigative journalists at The Boston Globe uncovered one of the most shocking scandals in modern history. This Oscar-winning film explores the tireless pursuit of truth, the importance of accountability, and the courage to expose the unthinkable.
Think you know every detail of this groundbreaking investigation? Test yourself with this 10-question trivia challenge! Only true cinema fans and lovers of real-world journalism will get a perfect score.
Spotlight (2015) Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers and detailed explanations for each question from our Spotlight (2015) trivia challenge. This critically acclaimed film is a testament to the power of investigative journalism and the importance of holding institutions accountable.
1) Which newspaper’s investigative team is the focus of Spotlight?
The Boston Globe
Correct Answer: The Boston Globe
The film follows the “Spotlight” team at The Boston Globe, an investigative unit that uncovered widespread sexual abuse by Catholic priests and the Church’s deliberate efforts to conceal it.
2) Who is the editor who leads the Spotlight team?
Walter “Robby” Robinson
Correct Answer: Walter “Robby” Robinson
Played by Michael Keaton, Robby Robinson leads the Spotlight team with resolve and integrity. His steady leadership drives the investigation forward amidst numerous obstacles.
3) What major scandal is the Spotlight team investigating?
Sexual abuse by Catholic priests
Correct Answer: Sexual abuse by Catholic priests
The investigation centers on child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, revealing a decades-long cover-up by Church officials.
4) Which actor plays journalist Mike Rezendes in Spotlight?
Mark Ruffalo
Correct Answer: Mark Ruffalo
Ruffalo portrays Mike Rezendes, a tenacious reporter whose pursuit of sealed documents and interviews with victims becomes a turning point in the case. His performance earned widespread praise and an Oscar nomination.
5) What does the Spotlight team discover about the extent of the abuse scandal?
It is widespread and covered up by the Church
Correct Answer: It is widespread and covered up by the Church
The team discovers the abuse is systemic, not isolated, and that the Church actively reassigned abusive priests rather than removing them, prioritizing institutional protection over justice.
6) Who is the new editor-in-chief who pushes for the investigation?
Marty Baron
Correct Answer: Marty Baron
Liev Schreiber portrays Marty Baron, the new editor-in-chief who urges the Spotlight team to pursue the story despite its sensitivity. His outsider status allows him to question long-standing deference to the Church.
7) In which city does the investigation take place?
Boston
Correct Answer: Boston
The story is set in Boston, a city with deep Catholic ties. The Church’s influence made the investigation both politically risky and personally difficult for many of the reporters.
8) What legal tactic was used to keep the abuse cases hidden?
Sealing court documents
Correct Answer: Sealing court documents
Lawsuits were settled out of court with sealed records, which prevented the public from learning the full scope of the abuse. The Spotlight team fought to have these documents unsealed.
9) What is the name of the lawyer who represents many abuse victims?
Mitchell Garabedian
Correct Answer: Mitchell Garabedian
Stanley Tucci plays Garabedian, a determined lawyer who has long fought for justice for abuse survivors. His collaboration with the reporters proves vital to exposing the truth.
10) What prestigious award did Spotlight win for Best Picture?
Academy Award (Oscar)
Correct Answer: Academy Award (Oscar)
Spotlight won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2016, along with Best Original Screenplay. Its honest portrayal of investigative journalism and social justice was lauded by critics and audiences alike.
