SEPTEMBER 2024:
Good Characters, and Good Analysis…
Good Night, and Good Luck is a film driven by its characters, each of whom plays a crucial role in the unfolding drama between the press and politics in 1950s America. The film is directed by George Clooney and stars David Strathairn, Patricia Clarkson, Jeff Daniels, Robert Downey Jr., Ray Wise, and Frank Langella as well as Clooney himself. Below is a detailed analysis of the key characters, exploring their motivations, backgrounds, and development throughout the film.
Edward R. Murrow (David Strathairn)
Background:
Edward R. Murrow is the heart of Good Night, and Good Luck. Born in 1908, Murrow was a pioneering broadcast journalist who gained fame for his radio reports during World War II. By the 1950s, he was a respected figure in American journalism, known for his integrity, eloquence, and commitment to the truth. Murrow’s television program, See It Now, was one of the first to use television as a serious medium for news reporting, rather than just entertainment.
Motivations:
Murrow’s primary motivation in the film is his deep-seated belief in the responsibility of the press to speak truth to power. As McCarthy’s anti-communist campaign intensifies, Murrow becomes increasingly concerned about the damage being done to American society. He sees McCarthyism as not just a political threat but as a moral crisis that undermines the principles of justice and due process.
Murrow is also motivated by a sense of duty to his profession. He understands the power of television and feels a responsibility to use that power to inform the public and protect democratic values. His decision to confront McCarthy is not taken lightly; it is a calculated risk, driven by his belief that silence in the face of injustice is a form of complicity.
Character Development:
Throughout the film, Murrow is portrayed as a calm, determined figure, resolute in his convictions. His development is subtle, marked by an increasing sense of urgency and moral clarity as he decides to challenge McCarthy. Murrow’s integrity is evident in every scene; he is not swayed by fear or pressure but remains steadfast in his commitment to the truth.
Strathairn’s portrayal of Murrow is characterized by a quiet intensity. He conveys Murrow’s inner strength and resolve through a controlled, measured performance that mirrors the journalist’s on-screen persona. Murrow’s famous sign-off, “Good night, and good luck,” encapsulates his sober recognition of the risks involved in his stand against McCarthy, as well as his hope for the future of American democracy.
Fred Friendly (George Clooney)
Background:
Fred Friendly was an American television producer and president of CBS News. In the film, he is depicted as Murrow’s close collaborator and the co-producer of See It Now. Friendly’s real-life partnership with Murrow was instrumental in the success of their journalistic endeavors. Friendly was known for his innovative approach to television news and his belief in the medium’s potential to educate and inform the public.
Motivations:
Friendly’s primary motivation is his belief in the power of television journalism to effect change. He shares Murrow’s concerns about McCarthyism and is fully committed to using their platform to expose the dangers of McCarthy’s tactics. Friendly is portrayed as a pragmatist, aware of the risks involved but confident in their ability to navigate them.
Friendly is also motivated by loyalty to Murrow. Their partnership is built on mutual respect and shared values, and Friendly is willing to stand by Murrow even when the risks are high. He acts as a stabilizing force in the newsroom, providing support and encouragement to his team.
Character Development:
Clooney’s portrayal of Friendly is that of a steadfast and reliable partner. He is less visible than Murrow in the public eye, but his influence is crucial behind the scenes. Friendly’s character doesn’t undergo significant change throughout the film; rather, he remains a constant presence, embodying the collaborative spirit that drives the See It Now team.
Friendly’s development is seen in his increasing involvement in the decision-making process. As the pressure mounts, he becomes more assertive, pushing back against network executives and advocating for the integrity of their journalism. His calm demeanor and strategic thinking are vital in navigating the political and corporate challenges they face.
William Paley (Frank Langella)
Background:
William Paley was the founder and long-time president of CBS. Under his leadership, CBS became one of the most powerful media networks in the world. Paley was a complex figure, known for his business acumen as well as his support for innovative programming. However, he was also a pragmatist, often balancing his support for journalistic integrity with the realities of running a successful business.
Motivations:
Paley’s motivations in the film are twofold: to maintain the profitability and reputation of CBS, and to support the journalistic integrity of his network. He is portrayed as a man caught between these two imperatives. On one hand, he recognizes the importance of Murrow’s work and the potential impact of challenging McCarthy. On the other hand, he is acutely aware of the potential financial and political repercussions.
Paley is motivated by a desire to protect his network from external pressures, particularly from advertisers and government entities. However, he also has a personal admiration for Murrow and is reluctant to stifle his journalistic freedom. This tension between business interests and journalistic principles is a central aspect of Paley’s character.
Character Development:
Langella’s portrayal of Paley is nuanced, showing the character’s internal conflict as he navigates the challenges posed by Murrow’s confrontation with McCarthy. Paley starts as a supportive yet cautious figure, concerned about the potential backlash against CBS. As the film progresses, his frustration with the risks Murrow and Friendly take becomes more apparent, leading to moments of tension between him and Murrow.
Despite these tensions, Paley ultimately supports Murrow, though with reservations. His development is seen in his growing realization of the importance of the stand Murrow is taking. By the end of the film, Paley is shown as a man who, despite his pragmatic concerns, understands the necessity of Murrow’s actions, even if he remains ambivalent about the cost.
Shirley Wershba (Patricia Clarkson)
Background:
Shirley Wershba was a producer and writer who worked closely with Murrow and Friendly at CBS. In the film, she is depicted as one of the key members of the See It Now team. Shirley is also shown to be married to Joe Wershba, another member of the team, though they keep their marriage secret due to CBS policies against married couples working together.
Motivations:
Shirley’s primary motivation is her commitment to journalism and her loyalty to her colleagues. She is deeply involved in the production of See It Now and shares the team’s sense of purpose in exposing McCarthy’s abuses. Shirley is also motivated by her relationship with Joe, which adds a personal dimension to her character.
Shirley’s character represents the many unsung heroes of journalism who work behind the scenes to ensure the success of high-profile projects. Her dedication to her work is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and her willingness to take risks in pursuit of the truth.
Character Development:
Throughout the film, Shirley is portrayed as a strong, capable woman who balances her professional responsibilities with her personal life. Her relationship with Joe adds depth to her character, showing the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated industry and the sacrifices they often had to make.
Clarkson’s portrayal of Shirley is understated but powerful. She conveys Shirley’s strength and intelligence through subtle gestures and expressions, showing the character’s quiet determination. Shirley’s development is seen in her growing involvement in the more dangerous aspects of the team’s work, as well as in her support for Joe as they navigate the pressures of their secret marriage.
Joe Wershba (Robert Downey Jr.)
Background:
Joe Wershba was a journalist and producer who worked with Murrow at CBS. In the film, he is portrayed as one of Murrow’s close collaborators and is shown to be married to Shirley Wershba. Like his wife, Joe is deeply committed to the team’s work and plays a crucial role in the production of See It Now.
Motivations:
Joe’s motivations are closely tied to his professional and personal life. As a journalist, he is motivated by a desire to uphold the standards of his profession and contribute to the team’s efforts to challenge McCarthy. His relationship with Shirley is also a significant motivation, as the two navigate the complexities of working together while keeping their marriage a secret.
Joe is also driven by a sense of loyalty to Murrow and Friendly. He believes in the importance of their work and is willing to take risks to ensure its success. His character reflects the camaraderie and shared sense of purpose that defines the See It Now team.
Character Development:
Downey’s portrayal of Joe is lively and engaging, adding a touch of humor and warmth to the film. Joe’s character is more outwardly expressive than some of the other characters, providing a contrast to Murrow’s stoicism. Throughout the film, Joe’s development is seen in his growing confidence as a journalist and his deepening commitment to the team’s mission.
Joe’s relationship with Shirley adds an emotional layer to the story, highlighting the personal sacrifices made by those involved in the fight against McCarthyism. His development is also marked by his increasing willingness to challenge authority, both within CBS and in the broader political context.
Don Hollenbeck (Ray Wise)
Background:
Don Hollenbeck was a real-life CBS newsman who, in the film, represents the collateral damage of McCarthyism. He is shown as a news anchor at CBS who is targeted by McCarthy’s supporters, accused of being a communist sympathizer. Hollenbeck is a minor but significant character whose story highlights the personal toll of the era’s political witch hunts.
Motivations:
Hollenbeck’s motivations are rooted in his desire to clear his name and continue his work as a journalist. He is deeply affected by the accusations against him, which lead to severe personal and professional stress. Hollenbeck’s character is motivated by a need for vindication and a desire to continue his career without the shadow of McCarthyism hanging over him.
Character Development:
Ray Wise’s portrayal of Hollenbeck is poignant and tragic. Hollenbeck’s development in the film is marked by his increasing despair as the pressure of the accusations mounts. His story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of McCarthyism, as he ultimately succumbs to the stress and commits suicide.
Hollenbeck’s character development is a sobering counterpoint to the triumph of Murrow and the See It Now team. While they succeed in challenging McCarthy, Hollenbeck’s fate underscores the lasting damage inflicted on those caught in the crossfire. His character adds depth to the film’s exploration of the personal consequences of political persecution.
Sig Mickelson (Jeff Daniels)
Background:
Sig Mickelson was the first president of CBS News and played a significant role in the development of television news as a serious journalistic medium. In the film, Mickelson is depicted as a pragmatic executive who is responsible for balancing the network’s business interests with its journalistic mission.
Motivations:
Mickelson’s motivations are primarily focused on maintaining the network’s stability and reputation. He is aware of the risks associated with challenging McCarthy and is concerned about the potential fallout for CBS. However, Mickelson is also motivated by a respect for Murrow and a belief in the importance of journalistic integrity.
Mickelson’s character represents the tension between corporate and journalistic priorities. He is motivated by a desire to protect CBS from external pressures, but he also understands the significance of the work being done by Murrow and his team.
Character Development:
Jeff Daniels portrays Mickelson as a cautious but supportive figure. His development in the film is seen in his evolving stance on the Murrow-McCarthy confrontation. Initially, Mickelson is wary of the risks and concerned about the potential backlash from sponsors and the government. However, as the situation escalates, he becomes more supportive of Murrow’s efforts, recognizing the importance of standing up to McCarthyism.
Mickelson’s character development reflects the broader theme of the film: the struggle to balance ethical journalism with the demands of running a successful business. His eventual support for Murrow demonstrates a recognition of the long-term importance of journalistic integrity, even in the face of short-term risks.
The characters in Good Night, and Good Luck are richly drawn, each contributing to the film’s exploration of the role of journalism in a democratic society. From Murrow’s steadfast commitment to the truth to the personal struggles of characters like Don Hollenbeck, the film paints a complex portrait of the media landscape in 1950s America. Through their motivations, backgrounds, and development, these characters bring to life the moral and ethical challenges faced by journalists during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of a free and courageous press.
Good Night, and Good Luck is available now to rent on all streaming platforms…