Network is a 1976 American satirical drama film directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Paddy Chayefsky. The film follows a fictional television network, UBS, and its struggling news division, as they try to boost their ratings by any means necessary. When one of their veteran news anchors, Howard Beale, has an on-air breakdown and begins ranting against society, the network sees an opportunity to exploit his popularity and turn him into a media sensation.

The film features an all-star cast, including Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, and Robert Duvall, all of whom give powerful performances. The movie's themes of media manipulation, corporate greed, and the dehumanization of society are explored with a mix of satire, drama, and black comedy. The film's iconic scene, in which Howard Beale encourages viewers to open their windows and shout, "I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not gonna take this anymore!", has become a pop culture reference and a symbol of public frustration with the media and politics.

Network received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its performances, writing, and social commentary. The film was nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Actor for Peter Finch, who died before the awards ceremony and became the first actor to win a posthumous Oscar. The film's impact on popular culture and its commentary on the media and society continue to resonate today, making it a timeless classic of American cinema.

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