EP 15: Network (1976) News as Entertainment

     Network directed by Sidney Lumet may have come out in 1976, but it has a lot to say about how we ended up in the 24/7 news cycle with endless focus on ratings. It is a film Paddy Chayefsky the writer explains the relationship between the subjects of television and the industry. It shows the corruptible nature of television through Howard Beale (Peter Finch) and Diana (Faye Dunaway) who uses him no matter what it may do to Howard as he has a mental breakdown. Network was nominated for 10 Oscars including best director, cinematography, and Best Picture and won 4 for the performances in the film. Tom and Echo analyze the film, it's performances, and what it has to say about our modern society now that the film is over 40 years old.