Question 1

Which real-life CBS News producer inspired Holly Hunter's character in Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

Jane Craig was inspired by CBS News producer Susan Zirinsky. Holly Hunter shadowed Zirinsky before filming and cut her hair into a bob to resemble her.

Question 2

How did Albert Brooks come up with the idea for Aaron's memorable on-air sweating scene?

Accepted Answer

Albert Brooks saw a CNN reporter sweating profusely on air, then called writer/director James L. Brooks at 3 AM insisting Aaron had to sweat badly during his broadcast.

Question 3

Which major film festivals and awards recognized Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at the Berlin International Film Festival (1988) and received awards from the Directors Guild, Golden Globes, Academy Awards, Writers Guild, and multiple critics associations.

Question 4

What unusual arrangement did Jack Nicholson have for his role in the film?

Accepted Answer

Jack Nicholson was not paid for his role, at his own request.

Question 5

What central conflict drives the story of Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

A high-strung news producer finds herself in a love triangle between a self-doubting reporter and a charming anchor who represents the trivialization of news she fights against.

Question 6

What real-life news producer inspired Holly Hunter's character in Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

Jane Craig was inspired by CBS News producer Susan Zirinsky. Holly Hunter spent time job shadowing Zirinsky before filming and cut her hair into a bob to resemble her.

Question 7

Which famous actor requested not to be paid for his role in Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

Jack Nicholson was not paid for his role, at his own request.

Question 8

How did Albert Brooks come up with the idea for Aaron's memorable on-air sweating scene?

Accepted Answer

Albert Brooks saw a CNN reporter sweating badly on air, phoned writer/director James L. Brooks at 3 a.m., and insisted Aaron had to sweat profusely during his broadcast.

Question 9

Which major film festival screened Broadcast News in 1988?

Accepted Answer

The film was screened at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1988.

Question 10

What central conflict drives the plot of Broadcast News?

Accepted Answer

A high-strung news producer finds herself in a love triangle between a self-doubting reporter and a charming anchor who embodies the trivialization of news she fights against.

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