The film was released on November 20 , 1998 in the U.S. and worldwide . '' Enemy of the State '' garnered generally positive reviews from film critics and audiences , with many praising the writing and direction as well as the chemistry between Smith and Hackman . Given the events of 9/11 , the Patriot Act , and Edward Snowden 's revelations about the NSA 's PRISM surveillance program , the film has become noteworthy for being ahead of its time regarding issues of National Security and privacy
9/11
September 11 attacks
Enemy of the State (film)