Based on Eric Bogosian's one-act play of the same title, and set in the conservative hotbed of Dallas, Texas, TALK RADIO presents us with radio talk-show host Barry Champlain (Bogosian), a driven, self-loathing Jewish liberal who actively antagonizes his listeners. In spite of
Champlain's repugnant demeanor, his show is a hit, and Champlain is shocked when he learns that a deal to go national via satellite feed has been delayed. He conducts an especially vitriolic show, victimizing his ex-wife, whom he has called to his side for moral support; fending off death threats;
interviewing a sociopathic teenager; and berating his listeners for turning fear, hate, and suffering into their entertainment.
Fueled by a brilliant performance from Bogosian, TALK RADIO is an intense experience that will leave most audiences feeling drained. Director Oliver Stone confines most of the film to the radio studio, but the camera is always on the move. Less successful is the lengthy, overlit flashback
sequence, which introduces some unnecessary background information: Stone and Bogosian decided to combine Bogosian's play with material from the life of the controversial talk-show host, Alan Berg, who was murdered by neofascists in 1984. Bogosian's compelling performance, however, overcomes any
minor irritations in the screenplay. leave a comment
