Network (1976)

The contemporary state of news media is much different from what it was in the 1970s. The satirical examination we get of the news machine in Network seems a lot closer to reality now. We live in a time where media has driven people to do almost anything for “views.” Most news media is no longer consumed on network television, which in its prime was stringently regulated (for better or worse) but on the internet. The internet is a much more lawless platform, much like the depiction of network TV in the film. It allows for people to mostly say and do as they please with very few limitations, including the executives of media platforms. The film is really about power and perception at its core. It’s about being at the top or being seen that way. Much like the toxic behaviours, social media harbours today. I would recommend this film to anyone. I believe there’s a lot to love from the absurd, satirical humour to the more understated emotional moments.