Network (1976)
Kernel Score: 86% · 1,965 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Drama
Released: 1976-11-27
Runtime: 122 minutes
Where to watch Network
- Free with ads: YouTube Free
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
When veteran anchorman Howard Beale is forced to retire his 25-year post because of his age, he announces to viewers that he will kill himself during his farewell broadcast. Network executives rethink their decision when his fanatical tirade results in a spike in ratings.
Network parents' guide: ages 15+
Parents need to know that this R-rated satire of TV news includes adultery, corporate corruption, a suicide threat broadcast on air, and strong language themes.
- Violence & scariness: Some — A televised suicide threat and eventual on-air murder drive the plot, depicted with satirical rather than graphic intent.
- Sex, romance & nudity: Some — An adulterous affair between two main characters is a significant plot element.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Network
If you liked Network, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- American Beauty (1999) — 94%
- Raging Bull (1980) — 89%
- Do the Right Thing (1989) — 89%
- Natural Born Killers (1994) — 80%
- Once Upon a Time in America (1984) — 91%
- Nightcrawler (2014) — 87%
- Shame (2011) — 75%
- Serpico (1973) — 85%
Director
Cast
- Faye Dunaway as Diana Christensen
- William Holden as Max Schumacher
- Peter Finch as Howard Beale
- Robert Duvall as Frank Hackett
- Ned Beatty as Arthur Jensen
- Beatrice Straight as Louise Schumacher
- Wesley Addy as Nelson Chaney
- Arthur Burghardt as Great Ahmed Kahn
- Bill Burrows as TV Director
- John Carpenter as George Bosch
Network FAQ
Is Network good?
Network has an 86% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,965 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Network?
In the US you can watch it free with ads on YouTube Free and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is Network OK for kids?
Network is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that this R-rated satire of TV news includes adultery, corporate corruption, a suicide threat broadcast on air, and strong language themes.
What movies are like Network?
If you liked Network, try American Beauty, Raging Bull, Do the Right Thing and Natural Born Killers.