Network

Network (1976) A veteran news anchor, Howard Beale, is fired from his 25-year post due to low ratings. In a moment of madness, he announces his intention to commit suicide on live television. When his outburst results in a spike in ratings, the network executives decide to exploit the situation and turn his show into a sensationalized reality TV program. Beale becomes a prophet-like figure, preaching his angry populist message to a live studio audience. As the show's popularity grows, so does the influence of its producers, Diana Christensen and Frank Hackett. They begin an affair, but their relationship is complicated by their differing views on the direction of the show. Christensen wants to push Beale's angry message further, while Hackett is more concerned with maintaining UBS's reputation. Meanwhile, Beale discovers that Communications Corporation of America (CCA), the parent company of UBS, is to be bought out by a Saudi conglomerate. He urges his audience to pressure the White House to quash the deal, which panics UBS as the network is heavily indebted and relies on this merger for survival. CCA chairman Arthur Jensen meets with Beale and persuades him to abandon his message and preach a new "evangel" that promotes unity and cooperation among nations. Christensen's fanatical devotion to her job ultimately leads her to make a decision that will have dire consequences for everyone involved. The film features a powerhouse cast, including Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, and Peter Finch, who won an Oscar for his performance as Howard Beale. Network is a thought-provoking commentary on the darker side of television and media, offering a glimpse into how far networks will go to increase ratings and maintain their grip on society.

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Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as Network include One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Kramer vs. Kramer, Pretty Baby, Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles, Padre Padrone, The Last Picture Show.

Network was released in theaters on November 14, 1976.