Sidney Lumet’s “Network,” produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, stands as a scathing satire of the television industry, and its themes continue to resonate nearly 50 years after its release. The film follows Howard Beale, a longtime news anchor at the fictional UBS network, played with manic energy by Peter Finch. Beale is informed he’s being fired due to low ratings, and in a fit of rage, announces on live television that he plans to kill himself during his final broadcast. Instead of being horrified, network executives, most notably the cutthroat programming head Diana Christensen (Faye Dunaway), see this outburst as a ratings goldmine. They decide to keep him on the air, transforming him into a ranting madman who is just what the public needs in a time of general unrest.
The story then develops as Beale’s popularity grows and the network executives look for ways to further exploit his persona. Max Schumacher (William Holden), head of the news division, is a moral foil to the rest of the characters. He struggles to reconcile the profit-driven aims of the company with his belief in journalistic integrity. Meanwhile, Beale’s diatribes, which include calling viewers “mad as hell,” begin to influence public opinion as the network tries to maximize profits by pushing the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable for broadcast. The movie also examines the relationship between Diana and Max and how they view the role of media, making them a compelling point and counterpoint to each other. Robert Duvall plays Frank Hackett, an executive whose character is essential to the narrative arc as the corporate politics are explored. Beatrice Straight appears as Max’s wife, Louise, and this role is a powerful portrayal of a woman watching her marriage fall apart.
“Network” does not hold back in its criticism of corporate greed, media manipulation, and the sensationalism that can often come with a drive for high ratings. The performances are top-tier, with Finch’s portrayal of Beale winning him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Actor. Dunaway’s icy performance as Diana earned her a win for Best Actress and cemented her place in cinema history, and Holden is the steady hand, making the film all the more compelling. The screenplay by Paddy Chayefsky is sharp, and it’s filled with memorable lines, which makes this film stand out. The film’s pacing is quick, and the story moves along at a good clip. At times, the movie can feel a little dated, but the core message remains relevant in today’s media landscape, making it essential viewing.
Network is a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer production.
Release Date: 1976
Director: Sidney Lumet
Cast: Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, Beatrice Straight