Films about television often explore the behind-the-scenes drama, the impact of television on society, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. These films offer a glimpse into the world of television production, the lives of TV personalities, and the influence of the medium on our culture.
“Network”, 1976
Director: Sidney Lumet
This satirical film directed by Sidney Lumet follows a struggling television network and its ruthless pursuit of ratings. It delves into the dark side of the television industry and the manipulation of news for entertainment.
Starring: Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, Wesley Addy, Ned Beatty, Arthur Burghardt, Bill Burrows, John Carpenter, Jordan Charney;
Production year: 1976;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 121 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Network” on the website imdb.com
“Broadcast News”, 1987
Director: James L. Brooks
Directed by James L. Brooks, this film offers a comedic look at the inner workings of a television newsroom. It explores the personal and professional lives of the journalists as they navigate the pressures of the 24-hour news cycle.
Starring: William Hurt, Albert Brooks, Holly Hunter, Robert Prosky, Lois Chiles, Joan Cusack, Peter Hackes, Christian Clemenson, Jack Nicholson, Robert Katims;
Production year: 1987;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Broadcast News” on the website imdb.com
“The Truman Show”, 1998
Director: Peter Weir
Starring Jim Carrey, this film follows the life of Truman Burbank, who unknowingly lives in a reality TV show broadcast to the world 24/7. It raises questions about privacy, media manipulation, and the authenticity of reality television.
Starring: Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Noah Emmerich, Natascha McElhone, Ed Harris, Holland Taylor, Brian Delate, Paul Giamatti, Harry Shearer, Philip Baker Hall;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
More information about the film “The Truman Show” on the website imdb.com
“Quiz Show”, 1994
Director: Robert Redford
Directed by Robert Redford, this film is based on the true story of the quiz show scandals of the 1950s. It explores the deception and corruption behind the scenes of a popular television game show.
Starring: John Turturro, Rob Morrow, Ralph Fiennes, Paul Scofield, David Paymer, Hank Azaria, Christopher McDonald, Johann Carlo, Elizabeth Wilson, Allan Rich;
Production year: 1994;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Quiz Show” on the website imdb.com
“Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy”, 2004
Director: Adam McKay
A comedy film starring Will Ferrell, this movie follows the egotistical news anchor Ron Burgundy and his team as they navigate the competitive world of broadcast journalism in the 1970s.
Starring: Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, Fred Willard, Chris Parnell, Kathryn Hahn, Fred Armisen, Vince Vaughn;
Production year: 2004;
Genre: comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 94 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” on the website imdb.com
“The Newsroom”, 2012
Director: Alan Poul, Greg Mottola, Anthony Hemingway, Lesli Linka Glatter
While not a film but a TV series, “The Newsroom” created by Aaron Sorkin provides a behind-the-scenes look at a fictional cable news channel. It tackles real-world events and ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in the fast-paced world of television news.
Starring: Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, John Gallagher Jr., Alison Pill, Thomas Sadoski, Dev Patel, Olivia Munn, Sam Waterston, Chris Chalk, Margaret Judson;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama;
Age: 18+;
Rating: IMDB: 8,6;
“Films about television offer a fascinating exploration of the complex and often tumultuous relationship between the two mediums. From satirical comedies to gripping dramas, these films shed light on the power dynamics, ethical dilemmas, and cultural impact of television on society. Through engaging storytelling and compelling characters, these movies challenge viewers to contemplate the role of television in shaping our perceptions, values, and behaviors. Ultimately, films about television serve as a mirror reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of media and entertainment, prompting audiences to question the influence and significance of this ubiquitous technology in our lives.”
