Clooney premieres witch-hunt film

Hollywood heart-throb George Clooney was unveiling his new film Good Night, and Good Luck at its UK premiere tonight

The black and white movie, the former ER star's second as director, enjoyed warm reviews in the US.

Clooney directed, co-wrote and stars in the film, which is set against the backdrop of the communist witch-hunt of 1950s America.

The political thriller features the historic battle between TV news pioneer Edward R Murrow and Senator Joseph McCarthy.

Clooney, who made his directorial debut in 2002 with Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, plays Murrow's CBS producer Fred Friendly.

Ocean's Twelve star Clooney's father was a news anchor and Murrow, played in the film by David Strathairn, was considered a hero by the family.

The film-makers have used real newsreel footage instead of an actor to portray McCarthy, with Clooney saying they did not want to be accused of demonising him.

Murrow took on McCarthy and the House Un-American Activities Committee in a 1954 broadcast which gained legendary status.

McCarthy responded by accusing Murrow of being a communist.

Golden Globe-winning Clooney's rise to fame has included starring roles in Batman and Robin, Three Kings and Ocean's Eleven.

The premiere at London's Odeon Leicester Square closes The Times BFI 49th London Film Festival.