JFK: The Day The Nation Cried--November 22, 1963

Though confusion still reigns over the circumstances surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the general air of mystique which imbues the late President still lingers on in the hearts and minds of many Americans. James Earl Jones narrates this excellent documentary which details the life and death of JFK. The first half of the film focuses on JFK's early years, his meteoric rise to power, and the myth of Camelot, while the second half concentrates on the day of the assassination itself. Exclusive local interview footage shot in Dallas highlights the pain and bewilderment of onlookers who were on the grassy knoll overlooking the road that day, and contemporary interviews with Presidential aides recount the events as they occurred. Other interviewees include John Kenneth Galbraith, Isaac Stern, Norman Cousins, Carol Channing, and the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary. The subject matter is not presented in a sensational manner, and Jones is quick to point out that Kennedy had his detractors, both political and personal. In doing so, this program delivers an evenhanded account of a man whose legacy is still with many of us today. Highly recommended. (Available from: V.I.E.W. Video, 34 East 23 St., New York, NY 10010; 1-800-843-9843.)