Broadcast News

Broadcast News

Year: 1987

Runtime: 133 min

Language: English

DramaComedyRomance

A driven anchorwoman finds her professional and romantic stability challenged when a handsome new co-host is brought in to boost ratings. The seasoned reporter, known for her dedication and integrity, clashes with the charming but somewhat superficial newcomer. Meanwhile, a writer for the news program finds himself unexpectedly caught in the middle of their complicated relationships, leading to humorous and heartfelt moments as they all grapple with ambition, love, and the pressures of the television news industry.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Broadcast News (1987)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Broadcast News (1987). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1981, 1987

The movie unfolds over two key time periods: the early 1980s and a later reunion in 1987. The early '80s were marked by a surge in media influence and sensationalism, posing challenges to journalistic integrity. By 1987, the landscape has shifted as characters have developed their careers and personal lives within the evolving television industry.

Location

Washington, D.C., Italy

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, known for its historical significance, government buildings, and cultural institutions. It serves as the backdrop for much of the film's action, reflecting the world of television news and journalism. Italy is mentioned in the context of a military event, highlighting the film's international news coverage.

🏛️ Capital City 🌍 International

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Main Characters – Broadcast News (1987)

Meet the key characters of Broadcast News (1987), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jane Craig (Holly Hunter)

Jane Craig is a passionate television news producer, known for her commitment to journalistic integrity. She is strong-willed and career-focused, often facing challenges in her professional relationships, particularly with Tom and Aaron. Jane's journey reflects the complexities of female ambition in a male-dominated industry.

🎥 Producer 💪 Strong-willed 📺 Journalist

Tom Grunick (William Hurt)

Tom Grunick is a charming but somewhat clueless anchor who rises to fame quickly, struggling to live up to expectations. His character embodies the conflict between style and substance in the news industry. As he navigates his career, Tom's relationship with Jane adds layers to his development.

📰 Anchor 🌟 Charismatic 🤔 Insecure

Aaron Altman (Albert Brooks)

Aaron Altman is a seasoned journalist with a deep understanding of news reporting but struggles with confidence. His feelings for Jane complicate their friendship and his career ambitions. Aaron represents the more traditional values of journalism amidst the industry's changing landscape.

📡 Reporter ❤️ Unrequited Love 🧠 Intelligent

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Major Themes – Broadcast News (1987)

Explore the central themes of Broadcast News (1987), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎤 Journalism

Broadcast News tackles the challenges and ethics of journalism in a rapidly changing media landscape. The film highlights the struggle between maintaining journalistic integrity versus succumbing to sensationalism. Characters grapple with their ambitions and the impact of their choices on their careers and relationships.

❤️ Romantic Complications

Romantic tension is a central theme, as Jane navigates her feelings for both Tom and Aaron. Their complex relationships reflect the intersection of professional and personal lives in a high-pressure environment. The film explores how love and ambition can conflict, influencing characters' decisions and growth.

📉 Career Challenges

The pressures of career advancement and the consequences of budget cuts create a backdrop for character development. As the industry changes, characters must confront insecurity and make difficult choices about their futures. This theme underscores the sacrifices made in pursuit of success.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

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Narrative Summary

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These films are grouped by their shared focus on the intersection of love and work, characterized by intelligent dialogue, emotionally resonant character arcs, and a bittersweet tone that balances humor with poignant realism.

Movies about Journalistic Integrity like Broadcast News

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Narrative Summary

The plot revolves around a moral or ethical crisis within a media organization, often pitting an idealistic journalist against a more pragmatic or cynical counterpart. The journey involves confronting compromises, facing professional consequences, and ultimately making a choice that defines their character, leaving a lasting impact on their career and personal life.

Why These Movies?

This thread unites movies through their specific setting and core thematic conflict: the struggle for journalistic soul. They share a reflective mood, a steady pacing driven by dialogue and debate, and a focus on character-driven dilemmas over external action.

Unlock the Full Story of Broadcast News

Don't stop at just watching — explore Broadcast News in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Broadcast News is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Broadcast News Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Broadcast News, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Broadcast News Summary

Broadcast News Timeline

Track the full timeline of Broadcast News with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Broadcast News Timeline

Broadcast News Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Broadcast News that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Broadcast News Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Broadcast News

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Broadcast News: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Broadcast News

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