THIRTEEN DAYS

REVIEWED BY DALLAS SHIPP

Our rating: 3 out of 5

Because of: repeat harsh abuse of deity

Rated:

There are many that remember John F. Kennedy, and the accomplishments of his term in office. Many others, like myself, don't know much more than what we read in recent US history. This film is a vivid historical drama of the Cuban Missile Crisis, and teaches a great deal about those significant events of 1962 that nearly brought our nation to war. Thirteen Days is a nail biting political drama. What is scary is that these events really happened. It was by God's grace alone that our nation didn't fall into nuclear war. I feel the film was of exceptional quality for a political drama. While being a historical documentary, this film has the right bite to be an audience pleaser as well. The history lesson you get with the film is just another perk for watching it.

Although the film is compromised by the fact that we know what the outcome will be, it still retains enough suspense to hurl itself over the finish line with grace. The tension is sweaty, and the story is true. Thirteen Days has more than a political documentary could ask for. The performances were all pretty decent. The best bits of acting were in Bruce Greenwood's performance as John F. Kennedy, and in a few minor characters. Set in the height of the Cold War, the story begins with a spy plane's photographs of a part of the Cuban jungle. The photos show Russian nuclear missile sites under construction. Sites with a range well into the United States. President Kennedy and his cabinet are stuck with what to do with the problem. To let the missiles become operational is out of the question, diplomacy isn't working, and war seems to be the only option. Being pressured by his eager Generals, cautioned by his cool headed brother and assistant, JFK has to decide what it takes to get the missiles out of Cuba.

Thirteen Days is rated PG-13 for language. Violence is minimal. Language is very high and consists of over 2 dozen improper uses of God's name, as well as nearly 2 dozen used of "d_mn." One f-word and many scatological and anatomical references are used. Thirteen Days is the best documentary I have seen that sticks to its guns on accuracy. The sets and lighting were both great, and the special effects were smashing and beautifully done. Due to this film's theme as a political drama and the foul language content, I recommend this film to mature audiences. The high amount of profane language is this film brings down my rating significantly. Wait for the edited television premier.

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