Network (1976)

Last updated:
October 11, 2024

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Network is a 1976 satirical black comedy-drama film directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Paddy Chayefsky. The film stars Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Peter Finch, and Robert Duvall. It offers a scathing critique of the television industry, focusing on how a struggling news anchor’s mental breakdown is exploited for ratings. The film’s themes explore media sensationalism, corporate influence, and the dehumanizing effects of television.

The Story Unfolds

Howard Beale’s Breakdown

The film begins with Howard Beale (Peter Finch), the evening news anchor for the UBS Evening News, being informed that he will be fired due to declining ratings. In a moment of despair, Beale announces on live television that he will commit suicide on his final broadcast. This shocking statement initially alarms network executives but garners significant viewer attention.

The Rise of the “Mad Prophet”

Realizing the potential for high ratings, ambitious programming executive Diana Christensen (Faye Dunaway) convinces the network to keep Beale on the air. Beale, now portrayed as a “mad prophet,” becomes a media sensation with his rants about the corrupt nature of the world and television itself. His catchphrase, “I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” resonates with the public and boosts ratings dramatically.

The Climax and Resolution

Corporate Influence and Manipulation

As Beale’s popularity grows, UBS becomes increasingly willing to exploit his deteriorating mental state. Meanwhile, Max Schumacher (William Holden), Beale’s friend and the head of the news division, becomes romantically involved with Diana but is ultimately disturbed by her ruthless pursuit of ratings. Beale’s rants begin to target the corporate control of the media, specifically attacking the conglomerate that owns UBS.

The Ultimatum

When Beale’s anti-corporate messages threaten the financial interests of the network’s parent company, Chairman Arthur Jensen (Ned Beatty) delivers a monologue that underscores the film’s critique of capitalism. Jensen convinces Beale that he must propagate the corporate message of economic interdependence and the sanctity of corporate interests.

The Conclusion

The Final Solution

Despite Jensen’s intervention, Beale’s ratings begin to decline as his new message lacks the sensationalism that initially drew viewers. Diana and the network executives, driven solely by ratings and profit, decide that Beale must be removed permanently. The film culminates in Beale being assassinated on live television, a final act of sensationalism orchestrated by the network.

Movie Ending

Network ends with the chilling image of Howard Beale’s live televised assassination, highlighting the extreme lengths to which media corporations will go for ratings and profit. The film concludes with a montage of news reports, reinforcing its critique of the media landscape.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Network.

Type of Movie

Network is a satirical black comedy-drama film that combines elements of satire, drama, and social commentary, focusing on themes of media sensationalism, corporate influence, and the moral decline of television.

Cast

Faye Dunaway as Diana Christensen
William Holden as Max Schumacher
Peter Finch as Howard Beale
Robert Duvall as Frank Hackett
Ned Beatty as Arthur Jensen
Beatrice Straight as Louise Schumacher

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Elliot Lawrence, whose music underscores the dramatic and satirical elements of the narrative.

Filming Locations

Network was filmed in various locations in New York City, including:

CBS Broadcast Center: Used for interior shots of the UBS network studios.
New York City streets and buildings: For various exterior scenes.

Awards and Nominations

Network received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

Academy Awards: Won Best Actor (Peter Finch), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Beatrice Straight), Best Actress (Faye Dunaway), and Best Original Screenplay (Paddy Chayefsky). Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Ned Beatty), Best Cinematography, and Best Film Editing.
Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Peter Finch) and Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama (Faye Dunaway). Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Supporting Actor (Ned Beatty), and Best Supporting Actress (Beatrice Straight).
BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film, Best Direction, Best Actor in a Leading Role (Peter Finch), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Faye Dunaway), Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, and Best Soundtrack.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Peter Finch’s portrayal of Howard Beale earned him a posthumous Academy Award, making him the first actor to receive the award posthumously.
The film’s iconic “mad as hell” speech was inspired by real-life frustrations and anxieties of the 1970s.
Sidney Lumet aimed to create a realistic depiction of the television industry, using extensive research and consultations with industry insiders.

Inspirations and References

Network is inspired by the increasing influence of television on public perception and the potential dangers of media sensationalism. Paddy Chayefsky’s screenplay reflects his concerns about the moral and ethical decline of the media industry, drawing from real events and trends of the time.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Network closely follows Sidney Lumet’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Howard Beale’s on-air breakdown and his declaration that he will commit suicide.
Beale’s “mad as hell” speech, rallying viewers to express their frustrations.
The network executives’ discussions about exploiting Beale’s condition for ratings.
Arthur Jensen’s monologue about the power of corporations.
The climactic scene where Beale is assassinated on live television.

Iconic Quotes

“I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” – Howard Beale
“The world is a business, Mr. Beale. It has been since man crawled out of the slime.” – Arthur Jensen
“This is not a psychotic breakdown; this is a cleansing moment of clarity.” – Diana Christensen

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film includes subtle references to real-life media personalities and events, grounding its satire in reality.
Paddy Chayefsky’s screenplay incorporates elements of absurdity and dark humor to enhance the film’s critique of the media.

Trivia

The film’s budget was approximately $3.8 million, and it grossed over $23 million worldwide.
Beatrice Straight won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance, despite having only five minutes and two seconds of screen time, the shortest ever to win an Oscar.
The term “mad as hell” has entered popular culture, often used to describe frustration and anger towards societal issues.

Why Watch?

Network offers a powerful and thought-provoking critique of the television industry and media sensationalism, featuring standout performances, particularly by Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, and William Holden, and masterful direction by Sidney Lumet. Its blend of satirical humor, drama, and social commentary makes it a must-watch for fans of classic and influential cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

Sidney Lumet also directed:

12 Angry Men (1957)
Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Serpico (1973)
The Verdict (1982)
Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead (2007)