Death Of A President

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: October 27, 2006

DVD Release Date: April 3, 2007

Plot 411: A fictional account of events surrounding the assassination of George W. Bush and the aftermath that occurs.

Review: Yes, the assassination of Bush was a major part of this film, but he definitely wasn't the only issue addressed and I would argue that he and his fictional assassination weren't really even the main theme of the film. The film was shot in a documentary style, which really made you feel like you were in Chicago and that this event was really happening. It felt like you were watching something on the History Channel. Most of the film was made of interviews with key people surrounding the event, such as the secret service, FBI, Bush's speech writer and forensics analysts. The story is also told through different media - some real archival footage and some created especially for the film. Different cameras were used, even cell phone cameras, which created an authenticity about the "documentary." Most of the real and fictional scenes and dialogue are blended seamlessly, however, there are some audio portions where you are conscious that the film makers had manipulated them. But, this doesn't hurt the plot or movie one bit. In fact, for me it emphasized the genius of it all. Besides all the technical stuff that went into making this film, I really enjoyed how this subject matter was portrayed. The surrounding storylines are actually much more interesting than the assassination itself because it is here that you are able to see the different motives of various participants. The genius of this film is that you walk away feeling empathetic to all parties. It gives you a taste of what each group has at stake and how it personally affects them. The movie really calls into question your own beliefs and makes you rethink your political beliefs and your identity as an American.

Watch It: For an insightful look at America post-9/11.

Skip It: If the idea of killing a real and very much alive person will offend you.

Trailer: