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‘Quiz Show’ film stands test of time
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IT’S a perfect metaphor for the film itself, which demonstrates the menacing threat of conformity in the face corporate hegemony — behind a slick if somewhat slight story of behind-the-scenes manipulation of a TV show.
The story is told with a strong cast populated with those welcome actors who shun the flashy for the subtle. David Paymer as a manipulative “Twenty One” producer and Ralph Fiennes as his main mark especially shine but avoid the sort of grandstanding you almost expect from great performances. Perhaps they were inspired by their director, film star Robert Redford, who at 77 years old today still reflects that sort of bygone integrity.
Speaking of integrity, or the lack there of, this 20-year-old movie makes an interesting case study for those with interest in TV today, especially in so-called reality shows.
After all, game shows are the original reality programming. And while today people complain of documentary-style shows like “Storage Wars” fudging facts, as if that’s some sort of shocking, new revelation, “Quiz Show” (1994) indicates that it goes back (literally) to the halcyon days of TV. Ratings always trump facts.
It’s no surprise, either. As Paymer’s character states, “The public has a very short memory. But corporations, they never forget.”
Compellingly, the movie casts a wide net, going after a wide range of sins.
John Turturro’s nebbish contestant bends for a shot at fame, while Ralph Fiennes takes answers to trivia questions for the cash and a chance to get out from under the shadow of his father. Either way, deception doesn’t pay.
It’s a simple message, but told with forthrightness and a little retro style, it’s done mostly effectively.
Venue: The Pearl, 471 Zhapu Rd
Date: Tomorrow, 7pm
Admission: Free
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