Live! (2007 film)

Live! is a 2007 American independent thriller film directed by Bill Guttentag, who also co-wrote and co-produced. The film stars Eva Mendes as Katy Courbet, a television executive who greenlights a controversial new reality show where contestants play Russian roulette on live television for a five-million-dollar prize.

The film explores themes of reality television, media sensationalism, ethics in broadcasting, and the potential consequences of pushing the boundaries of entertainment. Live! employs a mockumentary style, interweaving scripted scenes with what appears to be behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. This stylistic choice aims to heighten the sense of realism and critique the exploitative nature of the reality television industry.

The plot centers around Courbet's efforts to navigate the logistical and ethical challenges of producing such a shocking program while dealing with network executives, contestants, and public scrutiny. As the show progresses, the stakes become increasingly high, both for the participants and for Courbet herself, forcing her to confront the moral implications of her ambition.

The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its audacious premise and social commentary, while others criticized its execution and overall impact. Despite the mixed reception, Live! sparked debate about the responsibility of media outlets and the public's appetite for extreme entertainment.