Oscar-winning 'Spotlight' to be screened May 3

"Spotlight," winner of the 2016 Academy Award for Best Picture, will be shown at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, on Western Washington University's Bellingham campus.

The free showing, which is sponsored by the WWU student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, will take place in Communications Facility Room 110.

The film tells the true story of a team of investigative reporters who uncovered the systemic abuse of children by priests in a town where the Catholic Church was (and remains) a huge political and social influence, said Peggy Watt, a professor of journalism at Western, via email.

"The movie gives insight into solid, shoe-leather reporting as well as newsroom dynamics and the ethical issues the reporters faced as they chased the story," Watt said.

Doors open at 5:30. Popcorn and door prizes will be available.

The film will be shown under a site license through the Society of Professional Journalists.