Kennedy
Kennedy is a five-hour miniseries written by Reg Gadney and directed by Jim Goddard. The miniseries was produced by Central Independent Television and originally aired in the United States starting on 20 November 1983 around the time of the 20th anniversary of the Kennedy assassination. The TV miniseries was a biography of the 1961-1963 presidency of John F. Kennedy. The mini-series stars Martin Sheen as President John F. Kennedy, John Shea as Robert F. Kennedy, Blair Brown as Jacqueline Kennedy, E.G. Marshall as Joseph P. Kennedy, Vincent Gardenia as J. Edgar Hoover and Kelsey Grammer as Stephen Smith amongst many others. The series was broadcast on NBC, and was also sold to 50 Countries, with 27 of them broadcasting the series simultaneous. The series was nominated for 3 Golden Globes and 4 BAFTA, and won Baftas for Best Drama Series and Best Make Up.
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Plot Summary
This comprehensive documentary chronicles the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy, from his early political career through his assassination. It utilizes extensive archival footage, interviews with key figures, and expert analysis to provide a detailed look at his time in office, his policies, and the cultural impact he had. The film explores significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Civil Rights Movement, and the space race, painting a portrait of a charismatic leader during a tumultuous era. It also delves into the personal aspects of his life and the enduring legacy he left behind.
Critical Reception
Kennedy (1983) was generally well-received by critics for its thoroughness and in-depth exploration of John F. Kennedy's life and presidency. Reviewers often highlighted its extensive use of archival material and the balanced perspective it offered on a complex historical figure. Audiences appreciated its educational value and its portrayal of a pivotal period in American history. While some might have found its length demanding, the overall consensus pointed to it being a significant and informative documentary.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its extensive use of historical footage and interviews.
- Seen as a thorough and comprehensive overview of Kennedy's life and presidency.
- Commended for its balanced perspective on a complex political figure and era.
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Fun Fact
The documentary utilized over 4 million feet of film, much of it newly unearthed archival footage, to construct its narrative.
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