Review of Broadcast News (1987) by John O — 16 May 2010

It's evident from beginning to end that "Broadcast News" was conceived by one hell of a writer. It's true. The dialogue is always delivered with crackling wit and it never loses its credibility.

Even so, along the way, "Broadcast News" falters a bit. It's not so much the quality of writing that hinders it, but the focus. In the first hour, the whole film is razor sharp as it hones in on in the inner workings of TV news.

But along the way, it turns more and more into a romantic comedy, and that's where the movie falters. The characters are interesting sure, but we never get sucked in to their relationships. Either the actors involved just don't have the necessary chemistry, or maybe the characters themselves don't seem to mesh well together.

All that matters is that it just doesn't work. Let me just say though that Holly Hunter is spectacular in this. Her character is emotionally erratic and complicated, and Hunter lets us see that by delivering every line and nuance with fiery perfection.

"Broadcast News" is well-written and in many instances funny, but I just wish it was a bit more compelling, especially considering all of the talent involved.