Review of Network (1976) by Nikolaj Z — 17 Dec 2011
Network was an irresistibly funny and satirical movie, and I liked it very much indeed. What it portrays in a funny, but no means inapt way - the media - was entertaining, classic, and anything BUT cliche.
The reason I think why Network was so revolutionary, was because it portrayed the media the way it really was then: a thirsty, ruthless entity determined to resort to anything to garner more viewers. Which is why I also firmly think that it's relevant even to today's media-savvy world.
It was an opposite take on the media to another journalism-related classic released that same year - All the President's Men. Network maybe highly fictional (I mean, come on, who on earth would kill a TV personality just because he has "lousy ratings"?).
But the comedy it evokes - particularly due to strong performances by Peter Finch and Faye Dunaway - is simply too lovable and enjoyable, that one simply dispenses with all that. To me, this HAS to be the best satirical movie ever.
And the subject it chooses to parody - the media - was very aptly (and at times ruthlessly) exploited to highly comedic proportions.
This review of Network (1976) was written by Nikolaj Z on 17 Dec 2011.
Network has generally received very positive reviews.
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