Detailed Summary
The Assassination of John F. Kennedy
The film begins with a dramatized recreation of the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963. The event is shown in brutal detail, setting the stage for the deep conspiracy investigation that follows.
Jim Garrison’s Quest for the Truth
New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison (Kevin Costner) becomes suspicious of the official narrative after reading the Warren Commission Report, which concludes that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. Garrison begins an investigation, uncovering a web of contradictions, mysterious deaths, and possible government involvement.
The Key Witnesses and Evidence
Garrison interviews various figures, including David Ferrie (Joe Pesci), a man with suspicious ties to Oswald, and Willie O’Keefe (Kevin Bacon), a hustler with insider knowledge of a shadowy operation. As Garrison digs deeper, the evidence points to a larger conspiracy involving the CIA, FBI, and powerful political figures.
The Courtroom Drama
The climax of the film centers around Garrison’s prosecution of Clay Shaw (Tommy Lee Jones), a businessman with alleged links to the conspiracy. Garrison lays out a compelling case, arguing that Kennedy was killed in a coup d’état orchestrated by elements within the government who wanted to maintain the status quo in Vietnam and counter the president’s reformist agenda.
The “Magic Bullet” Theory
The film famously criticizes the “single bullet theory,” highlighting its implausibility. Garrison argues that multiple shooters were involved, challenging the official version presented by the Warren Commission.
The Verdict and Aftermath
Despite Garrison’s passionate arguments and the mountain of evidence he presents, Shaw is acquitted. Garrison reflects on his failure to expose the truth fully but remains steadfast in his belief that the truth will one day be revealed.
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Movie Ending
The film ends on a somber note with Garrison addressing the audience, reminding them of the importance of truth and the dangers of unchecked power. The closing text reveals that Garrison’s efforts led to the eventual release of classified documents and helped fuel ongoing debates about the JFK assassination.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “JFK” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“JFK” is a historical legal drama and political thriller, with elements of a conspiracy theory narrative. The film explores complex themes like governmental power, corruption, and the pursuit of truth.
Cast
- Kevin Costner as Jim Garrison
- Tommy Lee Jones as Clay Shaw
- Gary Oldman as Lee Harvey Oswald
- Joe Pesci as David Ferrie
- Kevin Bacon as Willie O’Keefe
- Sissy Spacek as Liz Garrison
- Donald Sutherland as X (an informant)
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score, composed by John Williams, is both haunting and patriotic. It effectively captures the tension, mystery, and tragedy surrounding the assassination and subsequent investigation.
Filming Locations
- Dallas, Texas: Key scenes, including the recreation of the assassination at Dealey Plaza.
- New Orleans, Louisiana: Where much of Garrison’s investigation takes place.
- Washington, D.C.: Filming at the Capitol and other federal buildings for authenticity.
These locations were essential in grounding the film in the real history of the JFK assassination and creating an immersive atmosphere.
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Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Won Best Cinematography and Best Film Editing. Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director (Oliver Stone), Best Supporting Actor (Tommy Lee Jones), and Best Adapted Screenplay.
- Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Director (Oliver Stone).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film’s meticulous recreation of Dealey Plaza involved a blend of original footage, reenactments, and CGI enhancements.
- Kevin Costner delivered a 20-minute courtroom monologue in a single take.
- Director Oliver Stone faced significant controversy and criticism from historians and political figures for the film’s portrayal of the events, with many accusing it of promoting conspiracy theories.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: The film is based on two books: On the Trail of the Assassins by Jim Garrison and Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy by Jim Marrs.
- Historical References: The film draws heavily on real-life events, interviews, and documents surrounding the assassination, although some creative liberties were taken.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The film originally included longer sequences detailing Garrison’s investigation. These scenes were trimmed for pacing but are available in the director’s cut.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Faithful Adaptation: The film stays close to the ideas presented in the source books, emphasizing the conspiracy narrative.
- Historical Accuracy: Some critics argue that the film takes liberties with historical facts, blending real events with speculation to fit its narrative.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Garrison’s Courtroom Speech: The powerful closing argument where Garrison lays out the alleged conspiracy.
- The Dealey Plaza Assassination Recreation: The chilling and detailed portrayal of JFK’s assassination.
- The Meeting with “X”: A tense conversation between Garrison and a mysterious informant who reveals insider knowledge of government operations.
Iconic Quotes
- “Let justice be done though the heavens fall.” – Jim Garrison
- “Who benefits? Who has the power to cover it up? Who?” – Jim Garrison
- “It’s a mystery wrapped in a riddle inside an enigma.” – Jim Garrison
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film makes numerous subtle references to real-life figures involved in the JFK assassination cover-up, some of whom are depicted as shadowy background characters.
- In the background of the courtroom scenes, you can see subtle nods to the Warren Commission documents, visually highlighting the contradictions Garrison discusses.
Trivia
- Oliver Stone made this film partly in response to his belief that there was a government cover-up regarding the JFK assassination.
- The real Jim Garrison makes a cameo in the film as Chief Justice Earl Warren.
- The movie was instrumental in the passage of the President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992, which led to the release of thousands of documents related to the assassination.
Why Watch?
“JFK” is a gripping, thought-provoking film that blends historical drama with investigative thriller elements. It challenges viewers to question official narratives and consider the complexities of history. Whether you believe in the conspiracy theory or not, the film is a masterclass in storytelling and filmmaking.
Director’s Other Movies
- Platoon (1986)
- Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
- Nixon (1995)
- Wall Street (1987)
- Natural Born Killers (1994)