TWA Flight 800

Although Kristina Borgesson's documentary disdains the word "conspiracy," TWA Flight 800 essentially covers a conspiracy theory that simply will not die. On July 17, 1996, a TWA flight bound from New York to Paris, exploded off Long Island, killing all 230 aboard. Multiple witnesses claimed to see a “missile” hit the plane, but National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigators ultimately concluded that a mystery malfunction/fuel explosion was responsible. Here a self-styled TWA 800 investigator—physics student Tom Stalcup (who is also a co-producer of the film)—demands that the case be re-opened, based on radar returns, nitrate residue, and the physical condition of the wreckage. His verdict: an entire salvo of missiles hit Flight 800, and the FBI, CIA, NTSB (current head David Mayer is outed as a prime evildoer), and mainstream media have covered up the truth. Most compelling here are the tales from dissenting investigators and whistleblowers, who talk of rogue government agents disobeying protocol, evidence tampering, and the bullying of witnesses. TWA Flight 800 offers no thoughts on who might have shot down the plane—or why; presumably, the filmmakers are trying to avoid comparison to hysterical conspiracy-mongering takes on the Warren Commission or the 9/11 Report. But it's hard to miss the connection during the closing accusations aimed at those who declined to be interviewed here, right up to Bill Clinton. Still, this film has its supporters—including Oliver Stone—and a viewing audience that will surely embrace it. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)