Paddy Chayefsky: Collector of Words (2025)

Content by Tony Macklin. Originally published on December 17, 2025 @ tonymacklin.net.

What is the state of language in 2025?

In 2025 language is unprotected. It's on the precipice of obsolescence. These days the majority of "talking heads" and their guests on radio and tv use "I mean" incessantly. And "you know." To most sports' broadcasters and analysts, everything is "unbelievable." Perhaps, nothing is.

But I saw it and I believed it.

Most speakers care more about their hair than about language.

The documentary Paddy Chayefsky: Collector of Words reminds us how much words can matter. Chayefsky used the power of words to evoke emotion, understanding, and humanity.

Imagery is not all - it soars on the wings of language.

It appears that AI of the future will offer only popularized propaganda. Like home schooling, it will offer only values that are habits. There may be no place for creativity or independent thought. And no audience to seek them.

The documentary Paddy Chayefsky: Collector of Words offers a reminder of what words can mean - really mean.

Chayefsky may have been a limited writer, but he was committed to a personal vision. He began his career writing major scripts for TV, and dramas. He is the only writer who got 3 Oscars for solo screenplays: Marty (1955), The Hospital (1971), and Network (1976). In the latter 2, he showed his gift for satire.

Paddy Chayefsky: Collector of Words is serviceably written and directed by Matthew Miele. He has interviews that pay homage to Chayefsky and his significance. Among those interviewed are Aaron Sorkin (of course), Rob Lowe, Jeff Daniels, Bryan Cranston, Mel Brooks, Oliver Stone, et al.

A glaring absence is the lack of interviews with females. Julia Turner - Deputy Manager of the LA Times - does participate.

But the documentary is an important reminder of what is vanishing from our screens and society.

If you care, turn on your tv and scream, "I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it anymore."