Jim Carrey Names What He Calls the Greatest Movie Ever Made

Jim Carrey has revealed that his favorite movie of all time is the 1976 classic Network, directed by Sidney Lumet.

In his 2020 book Memoirs and Misinformation: A Novel, Carrey praised the film for its sharp commentary on society and its reflection of capitalist greed.

“My favourite movie of all time is Network,” Carrey wrote. He added that the character of Paddy Chayefsky felt like a prophecy about the last 50 years.

“Every actor scores immensely. It’s phenomenal,” he said, highlighting the performances and the film’s enduring impact.

Carrey has also shared his admiration for the movie in interviews. Speaking with the late comedian Norm Macdonald, he said, “My favourite movie? Network. It’s fantastic. Every scene in that movie is a smorgasbord.”

He pointed to the film’s smaller moments as well, noting scenes like William Holden and Faye Dunaway’s kitchen exchange, praising the writing and depth: “Now that I’m a little older too, you can look back on that movie… I mean f*ck who writes that? That is incredible.” He said.

Network stars Peter Finch in his final role, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, and others. The film tells the story of a television network struggling with ratings until news anchor Howard Beale, played by Finch, has an on-air breakdown that unexpectedly boosts viewership. The dark satire explores themes of media manipulation, corporate greed, and the pressures of modern society.

The movie was both a critical and commercial success, earning $23.7 million on a $3.8 million budget. It won four Oscars at the 49th Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Finch (posthumously), Best Actress for Dunaway, Best Supporting Actress for Beatrice Straight, and Best Original Screenplay for Chayefsky.

Network has since been recognized as one of the greatest films ever made, preserved by the Library of Congress and frequently cited by the American Film Institute and the Writers Guild of America for its significance in cinema history.

Carrey’s praise of Network also aligns with his own evolving worldview. Over the years, he has become more reflective and critical of society, and he sees in the film a prophetic commentary that remains relevant today.

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