A film you are supposed to like.

Rating: 5/10 (8 March 2006)

In this dry portrayal of the daring Edward Murrow, Clooney attempts at capitalizing on Murrow's genius. In doing so, Clooney uses Murrow's writing verbatim, proving his brilliance as a journalist, while also indicating his own flaw (Clooney's) as a poor writer.
Clooney's poor writing, however, does not shadow Strathairn's performance. Stratheim accomplishes what all actors aspire to do, he is. He delivers his performance so true that it does not seem he is even acting at all. Strathairn takes a drag from his cigarette he exact way that Murrow would. His suave and perfected performance will make one feel as though they are seeing the real Edward Murrow in higher grade film.
Still, Clooney markets to the pseudo-intellectuals, making one feel obligated to like a film of such caliber. The subtle relationship between the McCarthy era and our current situation seems to drive people into believing that this film is a well made movie. In short, the content of the piece out ways the execution of it.
I recommend this piece to those who admired Murrow for his bravery or who want to see Strathairn's break out performance. However, if you are searching for a film that will entertain, this is not it. This is a film for those who find text-books fascinating.