Review of Good Night, and Good Luck. (2005) by Adler N — 14 Jul 2011
The thing about George Clooney is that he never fails to capture the attention of the audience. This time, he has produced something that just goes to prove that sometimes black-and-white is the way to go to show real depth.
The movie is played in a quintessential sort of way, depicting how a broadcasting company tries to expose the flaws of a Senator, who wrongly accuses people of supporting communism. David Strathairn plays the assured Ed Murrow, and he is absolutely spot-on as a leader-like figure to his colleagues. Through his show every Tuesday night, he utters sharp lines to engage the audience on the side of the camera. And through this, we see that Murrow is a character not to be messed with, as he reveals the controversy surrounding Senator McCarthy. In a way, Murrow is like a man on a mission, whose determination can only be applauded.
But, men on missions often meet roadblocks. Expectantly, McCarthy responded in dishonorable means, first accusing Murrow of being a Communist when he was young, and then indirectly causing the death of his fellow colleague. Even his boss, William Paley (Frank Lagella), disapproves of the matter being presented on his show. But this is where everyone gets down and dirty. Together with Fred Friendly (George Clooney), Joe Wershba (Robert Downney Jr) and a crew of other passionate newsmen, Murrow manages to "navigate dangerous waters" to dish out the facts. Coupled with a melodic Dianne Reeves, the film couldn't have shown the intense gravity of the situation any better.
Once the novelty wears off, we must wonder, what happens next? A debate on TV between Murrow and McCarthy needs to be settled somehow, with someone being the victor and other the loser. However, when it comes to well-scripted movies, there is always none or even both. In the end, Murrow remains defiant, despite succumbing to the fact that this is a rotten place we live in, where freedom of speech is often neglected. The enigma of it all dies, but only for now, he can only say. So, he wishes in his dramatic, straightforward tone, "Good Night, And Good Luck".
Personally*... Noir is the new in-thing.
This review of Good Night, and Good Luck. (2005) was written by Adler N on 14 Jul 2011.
Good Night, and Good Luck. has generally received very positive reviews.
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