[Ex Deo]

Good Night and Good Luck

An amazing piece of film directed by George Clooney about journalist Edward R. Murrow and his legendary battle with Senator Joseph MCarthy during the 1950's, over his blatant and unabashed violation of the civil rights of American citizens during his Communist witch-hunts.

The film is shot entirely in black and white in order to more effectively transport the audience back in time, giving it a very stylish vintage look, which is enhanced with a magnificent jazz soundtrack.

There's no doubt that George Clooney chose to do this film because of it's relevance in light of the current situation in the US over the "war on terror". Similar to Joseph Mcarthy's labeling of anyone who disagreed with his methods or his hatred of Communists, as a Communist, there's a similar movement to get anyone who doesn't agree with the President's politics to be labeled as a liberal (as if it's a bad thing), or a socialist, or anti-American- this by the likes of figures such as Bill O'Reilly (who it seems blows his top on a nightly basis now) Ann Coulter, Rush Limbaugh, and even the general tone by seemingly moderately minded figures.

While there's little actual reprimanding going on, there's still a stigma attached to certain ideas (such as Universal healthcare) which no doubt, makes many fearful of speaking their minds.

This film has become one of my favorites ever, and is a great slice of history with good performances all around, particularly from David Strathairn, who plays the central figure. Definitely check it out.