The TV Set (2007)

A razor-sharp Hollywood satire about one writer's losing battle to keep his creative vision alive inside the television machine.

The TV Set - Movie Information

  • Original Title: The TV Set
  • Release Year: 2007
  • Directed by: Jake Kasdan
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Comedy
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 1h 27m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Production Companies: Raygun Productions
  • Production Countries: United States of America
  • Alternative Titles: Call me Crazy (DE)

The TV Set - Plot

As a writer named Mike struggles to shepherd his semi-autobiographical sitcom into development, his vision is slowly eroded by a domineering network executive named Lenny who favors trashy reality programming. The irony, of course, is that every crass suggestion Lenny makes improves the show's response from test audiences and brings the show a step closer to getting on the air.

The TV Set - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the Hollywood development wars play out:

A place where dreams are cancelled.

Where to Watch The TV Set

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The TV Set - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Jake Kasdan

Main Cast

  • David Duchovny
  • Sigourney Weaver
  • Ioan Gruffudd
  • Judy Greer
  • Fran Kranz
  • Lindsay Sloane
  • Justine Bateman
  • Lucy Davis
  • Willie Garson
  • M.C. Gainey

Writers

  • Jake Kasdan

Producers

  • Jake Kasdan
  • Aaron Ryder

The TV Set - FAQs

Where can you stream The TV Set?

The TV Set is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Prime Video with Ads. It can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Free ad-supported viewing is available on Tubi TV, The Roku Channel, Kanopy, Hoopla, Plex, and Fawesome.

Is The TV Set based on a true story?

The TV Set is not based on a single true story, but writer-director Jake Kasdan drew heavily from his own firsthand experiences working in Hollywood television. The film is semi-autobiographical, reflecting the real frustrations and compromises that writers and creators routinely face when navigating the network development process.

Who are the main actors in The TV Set?

The TV Set stars David Duchovny as struggling writer Mike Klein and Sigourney Weaver as the formidable network executive Lenny. The supporting cast includes Ioan Gruffudd, Judy Greer, Fran Kranz, Lindsay Sloane, Justine Bateman, Lucy Davis, Willie Garson, and M.C. Gainey.

What is The TV Set about?

The TV Set follows Mike, a writer trying to bring his personal, semi-autobiographical sitcom to television. His creative vision is steadily eroded by a powerful network executive who prefers lowest-common-denominator content. The film satirizes the Hollywood development process, where commercial instincts routinely override artistic integrity.

What is the age rating for The TV Set?

The TV Set is rated R by the MPA. The rating reflects the film's adult-oriented humor, language, and frank depictions of the entertainment industry. It is intended for mature audiences and may not be suitable for younger viewers.

How long is The TV Set?

The TV Set has a runtime of 87 minutes, or approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes. Its lean running time keeps the satirical comedy brisk and focused, making it an efficient and entertaining watch for anyone interested in behind-the-scenes Hollywood storytelling.

Who directed The TV Set?

The TV Set was written and directed by Jake Kasdan, the filmmaker behind Zero Effect and Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Kasdan drew on his personal experiences in the television industry to craft this sharp, insider satire of the network development process.

How was The TV Set received by critics?

The TV Set earned largely positive reviews from critics, who praised its sharp wit, insider authenticity, and strong performances from David Duchovny and Sigourney Weaver. Reviewers highlighted its incisive take on Hollywood compromise and creative erosion, calling it a smart, understated comedy with genuine industry insight.

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