Murrow is a 1986 biographical drama television film directed by Jack Gold, written by Ernest Kinoy, and originally broadcast by HBO.[1] Daniel J. Travanti played the title role of American broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow, and Robert Vaughn co-starred in the supporting role of Franklin D. Roosevelt. The cast also featured Dabney Coleman as CBS President William Paley.

Murrow
GenreBiography, drama
Written byErnest Kinoy
Directed byJack Gold
Starring
Music byCarl Davis
Country of originUnited Kingdom
United States
Original languageEnglish
Production
Executive producerHerbert Brodkin
Producers
Production locationsNew York City, London
CinematographyBrian West
EditorKeith Palmer
Running time114 minutes
Production companies
Original release
NetworkHBO
ReleaseJanuary 19, 1986 (1986-01-19)

Plot

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The movie begins during the early days of World War II when Murrow was a combat correspondent in London broadcasting to the United States. Murrow courageously reports from the front lines and even goes on bombing missions. During a White House visit after Pearl Harbor, President Roosevelt tells Murrow he is the most influential American in England.

After the war, Murrow continues his radio career and eventually expands into television with his popular See It Now show. He eventually makes his most famous broadcast attacking Wisconsin Senator Joseph McCarthy and his brutal tactics. He is credited with helping topple McCarthy. Throughout all of this, Murrow is a man of unimpeachable honor and integrity. This brings him into conflict with his network superiors who care more about profits and ratings.

Murrow eventually leaves television and becomes the Director of the United States Information Agency. A heavy chain-smoker, he contracts lung cancer and dies at the age of 57.

Cast

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Reception

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The Los Angeles Times described it as "provocative", and Time described a "storm of protest" concerning its portrayal of CBS executives.[1][2]

References

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  1. ^ a b Howard Rosenberg (17 January 1986). "'Murrow'--hbo's Version Of A Journalist's Life". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 12 December 2012.
  2. ^ Richard Zoglin (21 June 2005). "Edward R. Murrow: Tackling a TV News Legend". Time. Archived from the original on December 21, 2008. Retrieved 12 December 2012.
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