Good Night, and Good Luck.

From ArticleWorld

The film, a bio-replay of a period of time during some of the journalistic exploits of the legendary Edward R. Murrow. At this time, at CBS; Murrow, Fred Friendly and co-producer Ray Wise were countering the unconscionable tactics utilized by Senator Joseph McCarthy.

Plot

In the film, Edward R. Murrow(David Strathairn), Fred Friendly(George Clooney)were attempting to hold Senator Joseph McCarthy accountable for violating the constitutional rights of US citizens in his crusade to rid the nation of communist elements in the arts, business, the military and the government.

Resolution

1. Murrow confronts McCarthy over a US airman because of his father’s newspaper subscription.

2. McCarthy accuses Murrow of being a communist.

3. McCarthy accuses people in government and the military of communist affiliations.

4. Murrow exhorts the press to use TV to challenge tyranny.

Also, the film explores the fragile relationship between William S. Paley, CBS CEO, who sought to restrain the zeal of the news team and discourage any antagonism of McCarthy. The marital relationship of some on the news team, the issue of suicide by one of the team members, and reaction by the rest of the news media to Murrow’s courage and his fight against the practices of the McCarthy investigations and hearings are examined, too.

Production facts

1. Six Oscar nominations.

2. Four Golden Globe nominations.

3. Two Screen Actors Guild (SAG) nominations.