Historical showdown. Edward R. Murrow is the man.

Rating: 7/10 (26 March 2006)

George Clooney, writes, produces, directs and stars in this historical drama GOOD NIGHT, AND GOOD LUCK. In the early 1950's, Americans were seduced by the novelty of television and living in fear of Russia and Communism...those who dealt it, practiced it and lived it. This movie chronicles real life battle between television newsman Edward R. Murrow(David Strathairn) of CBS and Senator Joseph McCarthy and the House Un-American Activities Committee. Murrow did not shy away from controversy and was not afraid of McCarthy and his televised witch-hunt searching out those who were accused of being sympathetic to Communist causes. Clooney plays Murrow's friend and colleague Fred Friendly. CBS exec William Paley is played by Frank Langella. Other cast members of note: Robert Downey Jr., Patricia Clarkson, Jeff Daniels and Ray Wise. Strathairn's appearance and mannerisms are excellent copies of Murrow's. Scene's involving Senator McCarthy are stock news footage. GOOD NIGHT, AND GOOD LUCK is filmed in black & white giving it power and urgency. At times the pace is rather slow, not hindering the movie's dramatic importance.