Network (1976)

interesting. a bit off beat but interesting

This is, simply put, one of the greatest movies ever made.

A quite ridiculous premise for the whole movie, as well as its various subplots. The acting is overdone and totally unconvincing. Ironically, given the movie's indictment of television, it is more like a poor TV soapy than a serious movie. Interestingly, while the technology, hairstyles and clothes are all dated, the underlying issues for society are little changed, 36 years later.

Network is a must see film for anyone interested in the media. It keeps becoming more relevant with every new reality TV show. If you enjoy Aaron Sorkin movies or TV shows, this one is for you.

File under classic.

So pathetic - we turned it off after 30mins

A fascinating exploration of media and how it effects people in the most humorous manner. Might be outdated for some people, but I personally really liked it and can admire it for a variety of reasons. Will always be relevant and will always be a classic Sidney Lumet movie. Rest in peace.

Interesting commentary about the world of television and it's affect on society. Why let the truth get in the way of good ratings? Prime examples in the 21st century that's for sure... Definitely worth watching...

Hyperbole is deliberate and obvious exaggeration used for effect, and, to its detriment, Network would have to be one of the most hyperbolic satires I’ve seen. Did USA audiences need to be hit over the head with such a strident fantasy to score points about the inadequacies of mid 70’s television perceived need for sensationalism to drive up ratings? Is there no room for subtlety in satire? However, the acting is first rate and included Faye Dunaway as an ambitious TV executive bitch, an acerbic William Holden and a screaming evangelic epileptic Peter Finch who received a posthumous Academy Award for his efforts. A few scenes made the film bearable, one being Holden leaving his wife played by Beatrice Straight for sexy Dunaway. Campy it is, good it is not.

NETWORK is full of splendid scenes and dialogues. It's also full of awkward ones. Lumet tried to show what TV is doing to people, what TV was/is and Lumet is going over the top by showing what TV could possibly become (The end). Made in 76, it's still a good portrait of what TV really is today. 2 hours, full of dialogues. Do not expect actions. This flick is more about a business named television than about anything else.

I must have been pretty young when I saw Network for the first time, but I remember it having quite an impact on me. I particularly remember Peter Finch’s powerful performance as the TV anchorman slipping deeper and deeper into madness. I was particularly impressed that he was awarded a posthumous Oscar. Watching this again I find the premise of having someone assassinated just to get them off TV as a bit of a stretch. I find it hard to believe that the network would not be tied to the killing, particularly as they have signed an agreement with the terrorist group that carries it out. Still, this does not detract from my enjoyment of the movie. It’s a cracker. What a great performance from Faye Dunaway as the insanely competitive executive. Sadly most of us probably know someone like this. I particularly like the scene between Finch and the chairman of the media corporation in the boardroom (or “Valhalla” as the chairman calls it).

Everyone knows this film is great. I haven't been surprised when Network has had a bit of a revival over the past few years. It feels more timely now than it probably ever has. Almost apocalyptic in its predictions of the future, it's as convincing as any piece of non-fiction on the state of the media today. There is something about Faye Dunaway that is incredibly appealing. She never looks like she's trying really hard to impress you, like a lot of actresses I come across. Alongside the rest of this great cast she shines.

I saw this as a teenager and found it very powerful then, but it's even more resonant and relevant today. Fantastic over the top script by Paddy Chayevsky,and a brilliant cast.

This movie will have you madder than hell and not taking it any more by the end. Incredible performances and decent storyline provide a very apt view of the state of the media today.