Network (1976)

Director: Sidney Lumet
Stars: Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Peter Finch
Runtime: 121 minutes

Synopsis: A television network cynically exploits a deranged former anchor's ravings and revelations about the news media for its own profit.

Performances: 10/10
Screenplay: 10/10
Costume/Makeup: 8/10
Editing: 9/10
Cinematography: 9/10

Verdict: "The World is a Business, Mr. Beale." These words, uttered in Sidney Lumet's Oscar-winning "Network" by Ned Beaty's character during a chilling scene that will stick with me for a very long time, just prove how relevant the topic tackled in the movie is today, more than 40 years after the film's initial release.

About corporate greed and media manipulation, the movie does an incredible job at showing the unbelievably inhumane measures taken by big companies in order to increase their ratings and make bigger profits. This is a shocking movie from start to finish that contains perhaps some of the best character arcs ever put to screen, arcs that are enhanced by incredible performances by Faye Dunaway, Peter Finch, William Holden, Ned Beatty, and Beatrice Straight, all of which deservedly saw their work rewarded with Oscar nominations in the acting department (Dunaway, Finch, and Straight even winning the Golden Statue). Sidney Lumet, who also directed films such as "12 Angry Men", "Dog Day Afternoon", and "Murder on the Orient Express" (the good one) truly proved with this movie that he has a place on the Mount Rushmore of directors.

"Network" is nothing short of extraordinary. It beautifully stood the test of time, even gaining in relevance in today's world dominated by large corporations. It's exceptionally written, expertly directed, and masterfully acted.  A must if you ask me. 

FINAL GRADE: 9.5/10