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Good Night, And Good Luck,
Cert: PG Redbus Home Entertainment DVD pounds 19.99
*****
Starring: David Strathairn, George Clooney, Grant Heslov, Robert Downey Jr, Patricia Clarkson, Tom McCarthy, Tate Donovan, Reed Diamond, Robert John Burke, Matt Ross, Ray Wise, Frank Langella, Jeff Daniels.
Set during the '50s, when Senator Joseph McCarthy rooted out socalled communist traitors via his televised witch-hunts, George Clooney's second directorial effort is a stark and timely reminder of the responsibility borne by the media to its audience, as well as a riveting portrait of political intrigue.
Clooney and co-screenwriter Grant Heslov incorporate many key speeches of the era into their tightly woven narrative, which fleshes out the battle of words and ideals between McCarthy and CBS reporter Edward R Murrow (David Strathairn), who was horrified by the senator's bullying tactics.
Against the wishes of boss Sig Mickelson (Jeff Daniels), Murrow and his producer Fred Friendly (George Clooney) openly criticise McCarthy and the terrifying powers at his disposal in a series of daring broadcasts, causing massive ructions at the station.
In retaliation, the senator labels Murrow a communist and the reporter has no choice but to fight for his good name. CBS head honcho William Paley (Frank Langella) backs Murrow in his crusade, aware that one false step could bring down the entire station.
Supported by a loyal team of reporters, including Robert Downey Jr and Patricia Ckarkson, who are hiding secrets of their own, Murrow...