Richard Jewell, played by Paul Walter Hauser in the movie, was working as a security guard at the Centennial Olympic Park during the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. On July 27th, a bomb explodes at the park during a concert, killing two people and injuring over a hundred. Jewell, who had earlier noticed a suspicious package and alerted the authorities, quickly takes action to evacuate the area and prevent further casualties.
Jewell is initially hailed as a hero in the media and receives recognition from the FBI for his prompt actions. However, FBI agent Tom Shaw, played by Jon Hamm, begins to suspect Jewell as the perpetrator after receiving an anonymous tip. Despite little evidence against him, the FBI launches a full investigation into Jewell, who becomes the subject of intense media scrutiny and public ridicule.
Jewell's life is turned upside down as he is hounded by reporters and forced to defend himself against baseless accusations. His mother Bobi, played by Kathy Bates, stands by him, but his friendship with reporter Kathy Scruggs, played by Olivia Wilde, becomes strained as she tries to get the scoop on his case.
Eventually, the FBI clears Jewell of any involvement in the bombing after the real culprit, Eric Rudolph, is caught. However, the damage to Jewell's reputation has already been done, and he struggles to rebuild his life and regain his dignity.
The movie is directed by Clint Eastwood, and has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the media and law enforcement's treatment of Jewell.