The Paperboy (2012)

In the sultry summer of '69, the town of Lately, Moat County, Florida, finds its tranquility disturbed by an intriguing murder case. This tale, narrated by Anita Chester, a black woman who serves both as a maid and a surrogate mother, revolves around the Jansens, a newspaper clan deeply embedded in the community. The patriarch, W.W. Jansen, rules over his local newspaper, the Moat County Tribune, while his prodigal son, Ward Jansen, a renowned investigative reporter for the Miami Times, is lured back home by a captivating story. Accompanied by Yardley Acheman, a sophisticated British colleague, Ward seeks to uncover the truth behind the 1965 murder of a corrupt local sheriff, Thurmond Call. The suspect, Hillary Van Wetter, a man from the wrong side of the swamp, is already on death row. His conviction, steeped in prejudice and lack of a credible defense, has raised doubts, making him the perfect scapegoat for the murder. Meanwhile, Jack Jansen, the youngest of the family, struggles to find direction after his college expulsion and an end to his champion swimming career. Drawn into the investigation by his elder brother, Jack finds himself as their driver, journeying through layers of racial tension, injustice, and deeply rooted societal issues. However, the investigation takes a dramatic turn with the entrance of Charlotte Bless. A bleached-blonde enigma from Mobile, Alabama, Charlotte is engaged to the imprisoned Van Wetter despite having never met him. Her association with the investigation not only becomes a crucial element but also stirs powerful emotions within young Jack. Torn between love and lust, Jack finds in Charlotte a complex blend of a mother figure, a high school sweetheart, and an irresistible vixen. This tale is not just about proving Van Wetter's innocence. It's a vibrant mosaic of relationships, exploring how Jack's affection for both Ward and Charlotte shapes the course of events. As Anita recounts this story, the lines blur between justice and prejudice, love and desire, and the pursuit of truth in a town entangled in its own secrets.

The Paperboy is a drama movie featuring Zac Efron.

The Paperboy is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Crackle, FILMRISE, Freevee, Kanopy, Peacock, Peacock Premium, Popcornflix, Redbox and The Roku Channel and it's also available on Hoopla and Hulu.

It is also possible to buy The Paperboy on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store and YouTube.