Although I believe the plot and overall structure of Good Night, and Good Luck was slightly anti-climatic and left more to be desired, the cinematic techniques boosted the film tremendously. First, director George Clooney’s choice to shoot in black and white sets the period and really proves just how much actor David Strathairn resembles Edward R. Murrow. It also symbolizes the clear division between the two factions: Murrow’s team and McCarthy.
The black and white also exaggerates the high contrast lighting used throughout the film. The bright whites mixed with the brooding dark shadows induce a sense of uneasiness and tenseness, which was how Murrow and the nation as a whole felt during the McCarthy trials, and how I felt watching. Black and white film heightens this stark contrast; color would only blend together and deemphasize the contrasting light and dark.
Finally, the use of close up shots throughout the movie brings the audience in and makes us feel a part of the action, not just spectators. We are able to see the expressions of the characters in detail as react to different events. We are able to see Don Hollenbeck unsuccessfully hide his anguish as he listens to the poor review of his show; we see Murrow’s determination when he is fighting for the initial chance to confront McCarthy; and we see Murrow’s subtle satisfaction after the end of every show. These close ups give us an opportunity to really feel what the characters are feeling instead of having to told through dialogue or other techniques.
With all its short-comings, the cinematic techniques Clooney employs bring Good Night, and Good Luck into the upper echelons of film.
I would be interested to know what you see as shortcomings in the film. It might make for a very good discussion. What about the fact that all the scenes are shot indoors?
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