Review of Network (1976) by Juan C — 14 Sep 2010

There are some truly powerful performances contained within this satirical tour de force of the media industry. The speeches are certainly laid on thick but they are extremely memorable and sold well. Beyond the "mad" speech, the Arthur Jensen speech was particularly memorable. The way it was set up to underplay the tirade to come was fantastic, followed by the sinister way it was shot in the darkened room. I also liked the way the film gave an inside look into both a look at the network itself and its relationship with the mega conglomerate.

However for all the acting prowess I think the weakness was the romantic relationship at the center of the film. There is a great speech from the wife that is cheated on but the relationship pales in comparison to the rest of the film while trying to be the emotional core. I did like the points though where it was mentioned the multiple outcomes of the relationship with self-referential glee.

At the point when the final twist is revealed the film enters the realm of fantasy. It is only at this point where it turns from being a satirical drama and into the realm of pure satire. The only man killed for low ratings!