Review of Network (1976) by Sabra E — 13 Mar 2011
Talk about a powerful vehicle way ahead of its time, substance was invented with this film by Sidney Lumet. And I have never been more impressed by a more intelligent screenplay. Bravo Paddy Chayefsky.
Take sensationalism in the media and stare at its predictable origins for the ratings game. Network was formed 35 years ago, before Springer, Stern or hedonism displayed at full force on reality tv. Now seasoned journalists camp outside the mansion of Charlie Sheen, the courtroom of Lindsey Lohan for scraps of news to cook and serve to hungry masses, observing these trainwrecks like a circus freakshow. Sadly, we are a slowly deteriorating lot.
Network's Howard Beale (Peter Finch won an Oscar for his portrayal) is a familiar newscaster turned free-range televangelist experiencing a nervous breakdown in full form, exposed to the masses to watch and relate in ravenous splendor.
Faye Dunaway (who won a best actress Oscar) plays a killer cutthroat network executive, heartless, ambitious with a lining of vulnerability deep enough to take the edge off her no-nonsense approach to success. Across the board the players in this cast gave immaculate performances. And overall, the directing, the message, the pacing; this film is very close to being flawless.
This review of Network (1976) was written by Sabra E on 13 Mar 2011.
Network has generally received very positive reviews.
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