"The Paperboy," directed by Lee Daniels and released in 2012, is based on the novel of the same name by Pete Dexter. The story is inspired by real events surrounding the 1960s murder case of a Florida man, condemned to death for killing a sheriff. The narrative follows a journalist and his brother as they investigate the case, which becomes tangled in themes of race, sexuality, and redemption. The film captures the complexities of the legal system and personal relationships, reflecting Dexter's exploration of truth and morality amid sensationalism.

"The Paperboy," directed by Lee Daniels and released in 2012, received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. The film, based on Pete Dexter's novel, explores themes of crime, obsession, and morality, featuring performances by Zac Efron, Matthew McConaughey, and Nicole Kidman. While some praised its bold storytelling and strong performances, others criticized its pacing and narrative choices. Overall, whether it's considered "good" depends on individual taste, particularly for those who enjoy provocative and unconventional cinema.

In "The Paperboy," Matthew McConaughey plays Ward Jansen, a Miami newspaper reporter who returns to his hometown to investigate the case of a death row inmate, Hillary Van Wetter. Throughout the film, Ward becomes entangled in a complex web of crime, romance, and betrayal, particularly involving his younger brother, Jack (Zac Efron), and a local woman named Charlotte (Nicole Kidman). Ward's investigation leads to dangerous consequences, ultimately exposing dark secrets and testing the bonds of family and loyalty.

Zac Efron was born on October 18, 1987. "The Paperboy" was released in 2012, so he would have been 24 years old at the time of the film's release. The movie was filmed in 2011, which means he was 23 during production. Efron plays the character Jack Jansen in this crime drama directed by Lee Daniels.