Life Often Imitates Art

Rating: Null/10 (26 July 2010)

In a world where fear of the unknown permeates society, the 1950's was a turbulent time. Rumors are running rampant and people are suspicious of even their closest friends. This is the premise of the Warner Brothers Independent film, "Good Night and Good Luck." David Strathairn plays legendary newsman, Edward R. Murrow,a chain smoking, relentless pursuer of the truth when reporting the news. There are various stories that Murrow reports but, none are more important than the activities of the Permanent Sub committee on Investigations, headed by Senator McCarthy of Wisconsin. The questioning of ordinary citizens has created a climate of distrust throughout the country. It is a time of war and in light of the conviction of Alger Hiss, everyone is a suspect. To Murrow, these practices are unfair and therefore must be addressed. Murrow, the most respected journalist of the time, sets out to report the facts of these proceedings despite the peril he himself may suffer. Directed by George Clooney, it is a riveting tale that allows the viewer to have a ringside seat at what was referred to as a witch hunt. The camera is very friendly to all involved and the attention to detail is extraordinary. The viewer is transported to a time when just the mention of one's name and communism in the same sentence, could create a tsunami of accusations and even imprisonment if not death. Whom do you trust? Trust Murrow and his "colleagues" to deliver the goods and restore a sense of sanity in the world as we know it. This film should not be missed. It could happen to you.