Review of JFK (1991) by Jay L — 12 Mar 2011

"To sin by silence when we should protest makes cowards out of men.".

~~ Elle Wheeler Wilcox.

Oliver Stone's political masterpiece. JFK details the details that detail one of the most infamous days in American history, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy is studied so hard in this film that it's an all out ambush on one's senses. It's an epic and classic political thriller that stops for nothing in it's astonishing fast paced and ultra-kinetic narrative. A film that every American needs to see, a triumpant and towering success that details a landmark of grief and sadness in Americana with absolute flawlessness. Stone's visceral and bombastic trademark of storytelling is utterly effective here, it's a completely wicked punch of suspense, tension, history, and historical vividness that assaults the eyes and the mind. Films like this just don't appeal to the masses, which is a seriously sad fact given the pure subject matter and historical accuracy (or inaccuracy as some believe.) A movie of one man's determination to make a difference, to overcome all the fabrications and falsehoods in a quest for the absolute truth. The movie that has it all, if it was related to the JFK assassination it's in this movie, all the conspiracies, all of the footage (even the shockingly graphic Abraham Zapruder footage) the truths, as well as the falsehoods. Exceptional film making and completely stunning editing for the entire 3 hours. Oliver Stone delivered masterpiece here. An epic of politics, Americana, and historical significance that will never be matched.

Kevin Costner stars in a riveting and a pure performance of brilliance throughout. It also stars Gary Oldman (the ultimate 90's villain) as Lee Harvey Oswald. Electrifying performances by all involved including Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci, Tommy Lee Jones, Michael Rooker, and Laurie Metcalf. A steller cast with even better acting. A masterwork all the way around.