Review of Network (1976) by Heressssss J — 09 Sep 2010

Network is a drama film from director Sidney Lumet, and stars an all start cast such as Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, Beatrice Straight, and even a small appearance from Lance Henrikson (whom I am a big fan of).

Network is about a washed up TV news reporter, Howard Beale (Peter Finch), who begins to rant, rave, and curse about society, capitalism, and the media on the air. When Beale begins to do this, the ratings for his show begin to fly off the charts, and make big bucks for the network he works for, UBS. Unfortunately, these high ratings come to a greater cost than there worth, and affect the lives of many who work at the UBS News Network.

I don't know what it is about Sidney Lumet, but I am continually impressed by is directing skills, as he does an absolutely amazing job with this film. The plot is expertly crafted by Paddy Chayefsky, and won an Academy Award for best screenplay. One thing I really thought was just amazing was the dialogue, as its probably some of the best written dialogue I have ever seen in any movie. But I do believe the one thing that makes Network stand out is its magnificent performances. Faye Dunaway and William Holden have a great chemistry and do a great job as lovers who are torn between their work and their relationship. Peter Finch does a mesmerizing performance as the crazy, politically incorrect Howard Beale, who gives some hilarious and intriguing speeches. The rest of the cast are equally fantastic.

Overall, Network is a down right awesome film that gets just about everything right. The satirical plot is thought provoking and funny, the dialogue is witty, the direction is top notch, the cast is stellar, and the performances are unbelievable. Network is definitely a film that should not be missed.