#552: BROOKS, James L.: Broadcast News (1987)

BROOKS, James L. (United States)
Broadcast News [1987]
Spine #552
Blu-ray


Since the 1970s, the name James L. Brooks has been synonymous with intelligent television comedy — his shows are insightful about work and love and always plugged in to the zeitgeist. He is also a master storyteller of the big screen, and none of his films is more quintessentially Brooks than Broadcast News. This caustic look inside the Washington news media stars Holly Hunter, in her breakout role, as a feisty television producer torn between an ambitious yet dim anchorman (William Hurt) and her closest confidant, a cynical veteran reporter (Albert Brooks). Brook's witty, gently prophetic film is a captivating transmission from an era in which ideas on relationships and the media were rapidly changing.

132 minutes
Color
2.0 Surround
1:85:1 aspect ratio
Criterion Release 2010
Director/Writer


James L. Brooks was 47 when he wrote and directed Broadcast News.

The Film

Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

Twenty-page booklet featuring an essay by film critic Carrie Rickey.

Commentary

Featuring Brooks and Richard Marks.

James L. Brooks — A Singular Voice

A documentary on Brooks’s career in television and film, featuring actresses Marilu Henner and Julie Kavner, among other collaborators.

Alternate ending

And deleted scenes, with commentary by Brooks.

Video interview

With veteran CBS news producer Susan Zirinsky, one of the models for actress Hunter’s character and an associate producer on the film.

Featurette

Containing on-set footage and interviews with Brooks, Hunter, and actor Albert Brooks.

Original theatrical trailer

Extras Rating (0-40):

39

60 + 39 =

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