As a journalism student watching 'Five Star Final' made me
think about the moment where writers get to a writing piece that may make or
break their career. In which raises the ethical question of is it worth
publishing and at what human cost? This reflects Yellow Journalism and when it
comes to writing any type of journalistic story, writers must find topics that
will capture the attention of the community. Yet, there continues to be a fine
line between profit-driven journalism, in which is seen in this movie, and
journalism that has an ethical purpose and is simply there to inform. Writers
may find THE story to publish but will exaggerate, prioritize drama, or even
exploit individuals all for reader engagement. In which journalists must decide
their own ethical obligations and morals to decide if they should cover and
publish the story.
Each individual journalist steps inside the world of writing
with their own set of beliefs, ethics, and purpose. There are journalists in the past, and even till this day who reflect the individuals that was seen in
the movie. Writers who put a story out just for shock and profit value. One's
who have little concern for individuals or the communities the story may affect
and even cross lines to gain more information.
Such as Joseph Randall who pushes for
the story to be published, in which he quickly felt guilty as he watched the
whole tragedy unfold because of his ethical failure. T. Vernon Isopod
represents pure corruption and immorality that is often seen in yellow
journalism as he fakes his own identity to gain information from other characters. Nancy Townsend who's
quiet, simple life she built after her tragic history was ruined as her past life was dug up
and posted across the front page. Townsend and her family represent the
innocent individuals lives that are often ruined due to unethical journalism. Five
Star Final represents the system of ethics in journalism that is experienced
with each story that is investigated and then eventually finalized within a publication. The movie unfolds
beginning to end as each fragment of journalism ethics is represented by the
characters and the events that happen in and outside the newsroom.
As a journalist we have a purpose to inform, entertain, and
serve as a voice for the public, all with respect, attentiveness and morality
for those we write about and for those who read our work. It is only right and fair for
everyone's story to be heard, yet it must be done with ethical standards. Such
as providing the accurate truth, avoiding the disclosure of sensitive
information, and treating sources/subject as human beings. Journalism is a part
of society for a reason, and individuals have been gifted with the purpose and
ability to write emotional, informative, and community changing stories.
Journalists are here to change and lift the world with their words, not to harm
and tear down individuals which is unfortunately what many journalists are
still doing to this day. "Five Star Final' is a movie I think all current and aspiring journalist should watch as ethics is key to not only being a successful, ambitious writer but to be able to do with ethical standards.
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