Integrity and decency

Rating: 10/10 (9 October 2005)

Clooney's film presents the themes of integrity and decency with an assured hand. It depicts journalism as an ethical and responsible function that is compromised and attacked by others who might have interests other than the public's at hand. "Good Night" reintroduces us to the historical period where some innocent people might have prosecuted without any evidence of a crime, where the pervasive atmosphere of paranoia overtook common sense and allowed some individuals to become drink with the power of manipulation. It reached levels of madness and indecency, as journalists such as Murrow began questioning intent and agendas. Soon, Murrow became the target of people like McCarthy, who refuse to surrender the spotlight and the power they now command.
In "Good Night and Good Luck", there is never any of the frenzy and heightened emotions so common in media films we had before. The issues are critical and important to the nation, the events are highly emotional, but Clooney assured direction keeps us calm while we observe and study this part of American history. It's interesting to note that some of the speeches by Murrow in the opening and closing scenes are so relevant to today's atmosphere. We live in a country where the media exerts so much power and so rarely it educates us in what is really important. Once I asked a friend what would happen if all the newscasts were canceled one day? He replied "not many people would complain", then I replied, "what about sports events?". His sarcastic comeback was: "it would be the end of the world".
In conclusion, this film will probably receive well deserved accolades for its fine craftsmanship and performances. Its glorious black and white cinematography enhances and makes us focus on the content, and the accurate and detailed production values support the outstanding performances and directions. It deserves an audience and plenty of awards. Will the public find it? Maybe if they run commercials during some fluff, and then again, we might be busy getting snack or playing with the remote.