Review of Network (1976) by Stuart K — 18 Apr 2010
One of the most topical films of the 1970's, and it still feels relevant to this day. The brainchild of Paddy Chayefsky, best known for writing Marty (1955), The Hospital (1971) and Altered States (1980), he created a very real possibility, and the most scary thing is, what happens in this film could happen.
This has UBS TV newsanchor Howard Beale (Peter Finch) being sacked for his shows low-ratings. So, during the news, he threatens to murder himself on live television at the end of his last week, and goes into a rant about the state of things.
His rants capture the attention of the American TV viewing public, and entertainment programming boss Diana Christensen (Faye Dunaway), who is looking for new ways to boost the stations ratings, who decides to give Beale his own show, with dramatic consequences.
It's a very well made film, and it's alot more relevent today than it was back then, it's well written by Chayefsky and director Sidney Lumet (who was very prolific back then) keeps the mood up throughout the film.
Hollywood should take note of this film, as we need more like it. And TV networks should be very worried indeed, as they might have a Howard Beale amongst them ready to snap.
This review of Network (1976) was written by Stuart K on 18 Apr 2010.
Network has generally received very positive reviews.
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