Internal Probe: CIA Erred in Helping 'Zero Dark Thirty'

The makers of "Zero Dark Thirty" wined, dined and lavished gifts on CIA officials who assisted them in making the Oscar-nominated movie — questionable practices that led the agency to launch at least three internal probes, Vice.com reports.

Among the conclusions in the CIA's internal investigations — obtained by Vice.com through a Freedom of Information Act request — were:

• CIA employees sometimes skirted agency rules preventing the release of classified material during their meetings with entertainment officials.
• Director Kathryn Bigelow gave the real-life officer who inspired Jessica Chastain's character a pair of Tahitian pearl earrings and offered a private screening at the exclusive Soho House in Los Angeles. The screening was declined.
• Bigalow and screenwriter Mark Boal gave CIA members gifts including hotel lunches, a ticket for a Prada runway show, and a $169 bottle of tequila.

"Zero Dark Thirty" focuses on the CIA's manhunt and assassination of al-Qaida kingpin Osama bin Laden and was nominated for best picture, director, and original screenplay Oscars.

CIA spokesman Ryan Trapani told Vice News that since the movie's production, the "CIA has completely overhauled its procedures for interaction with the entertainment industry."

He added the CIA's Office of Public Affairs "also strengthened policies and procedures to ensure the protection of classified information and to safeguard against unauthorized disclosures."

The 2012 film — rated R for strong violence including brutal disturbing images, and for language — was nominated for five Oscars, including best picture, actress, original screenplay, film editing and sound editing. It won for sound editing.

Related Stories:

• 'Zero Dark Thirty' Raises Question of CIA High School Recruitment
• George Will: Solitary Confinement's Toll on Society