For this assignment, I would like you to choose one of the following questions related to the film “Network,” and answer it to the best of your ability. Prepare it as a typed essay of at least three to four pages in length; citations will be necessary if you quote dialogue or utilize sources outside of the movie.
Answer one of the following:
1) What circumstances, both accidental and intentional, caused the UBS Evening News to transform into The Howard Beale Show?
2) Do you think Howard Beale was crazy? Why or why not? Were there any indications that suggest he was a little of each?
3) According to Beale, the human race is becoming more “humanoid” than human. What does that mean? How does this tie into his earlier rant against the television phenomenon?
4) In Max Schumacher’s eyes, how did television destroy Diane Christensen? What about Laureen Hobbs? Howard Beale?
5) Why did the writer and director include the subplot with the Ecumenical Liberation Army? What was its significance?
6) What were your thoughts on Arthur Jensen’s speech? Why did he present it to Howard Beale in the manner that he did?
7) What was the significance of Howard Beale’s death? Why did the network execs come to that conclusion? Was there any significance in getting the Ecumenical Liberation Army to do it?
To refresh your memories, a synopsis of the plot can be found on Wikipedia, and significant pieces of dialogue may be found on Wikiquote. Finally, the entire film may be found online.