Bully. Coward. Victim. The Story of Roy Cohn is a documentary film that explores the life and legacy of Roy Cohn, a prominent yet controversial figure in American politics and law. Directed by Ivy Meeropol, the granddaughter of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, who were famously prosecuted by Cohn for espionage, the film delves into Cohn's rise to power as a ruthless attorney and influential political operative in New York City.
Using exclusive access to never-before-seen archival footage, personal recordings, and interviews with Cohn's colleagues, clients, friends, and family, the film sheds light on the dark and corrupt aspects of Cohn's career. It traces his involvement in some of the most notorious cases of the 20th century, including the Rosenberg trial, the Army-McCarthy hearings, and the Trump real estate empire.
The film also explores Cohn's personal life, including his relationships with men, his battle with AIDS, and his eventual death from the disease in 1986. Through this intimate portrait of Cohn's life, the film exposes the man behind the myth and offers a critical analysis of the toxic influence he had on American politics and culture.
Bully. Coward. Victim. The Story of Roy Cohn premiered at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and was released on HBO in June of that year. It received critical acclaim for its insightful and nuanced portrait of a controversial figure who remains relevant in today's political landscape.