Eye of Dread

Rating: 10/10 (22 July 2003)

Having reviewed The Silence of the Lambs, Terminator 2, and JFK for the first time in 10 years, I can easily say that JFK undoubtedly deserved its Oscar for Best Film Editing. The film moves, flows, and never loses pace or interest. Its three-hour length flies by at quickening speed and remains captivating to the audience, something Born on the Fourth of July couldn't do. The use of multiple types of film also emphasizes its difference, something Oliver Stone couldn't have done five years before with Platoon.
Now comes the nuts and bolts of the film. I will but blunt when I say this next part, but I am NOT watching this film for a history lesson! If I want a history lesson, I'll contract one of Michael Moore's quack faux-documentaries (shame on you, Mr. Moore!) and take notes. Otherwise, Oliver Stone creates an incredible film here that would have been stronger...if it were the truth.
Kevin Costner has obviously fallen in the public light since this film and his acting is lower grade than in The Untouchables. Nonetheless, he portrays Jim Garrison with an almost quiet insanity. Somewhere behind those glasses is a fierce animal waiting for the strike. The remainder of the cast is not given enough to do other than be names we memorize and then forget. Tommy Lee Jones presents an interesting multi-layered character that Stone obviously holds in contempt.
Overall, a brilliant film that--historical notes aside--shows how a modern movie should be made. Kudos to Mr. Stone! I forgive you for Heaven & Earth. 5 out of 5 stars.