Jackie brings the Queen of Camelot back to life.

Rating: 7/10 (24 April 2017)

In November of 1963, the nation faced the horror of John F. Kennedy's assassination. The country was left shocked and unsure of what the charismatic and idealistic leader's death would mean for the future. No one was more effected by the assassination than JFK's wife, Jacqueline. She literally held him in her arms; was covered in his blood. It was left to her to define her husband's legacy. Jackie, starring Natalie Portman in the title role, is a film that seems to be centered on the question of what a legacy truly is. While still on Air Force One, leaving Dallas, Mrs. Kennedy is already contemplating the tone that will be set for her husband's final touchdown in Washington D.C. From her choice of burial site at Arlington, to the flip-flop on whether to walk with the casket in a procession through the D.C. streets, Jackie is determined to give her husband the honored place in America's history she feels he deserved. Natalie Portman gives a wonderful performance. Her tireless study of Jacqueline Kennedy's speech, posture and movement pay off in a truly inspired likeness. Portman's work reaches a level of nuance this reviewer feels we've yet seen from the young actress. Portman is surrounded by a stellar supporting cast as well. Peter Sarsgaard portrays a complicated, yet steadfast Robert Kennedy. Greta Gerwig gives great heart to Jackie's life-long friend Nancy Tuckerman. The late John Hurt is rock solid in the small role of The Priest. Expertly directed by Pablo Larrain, the film captures the grace that can rise out of tragedy. Jackie is worth a viewing for any of those interested in knowing arguably our most interesting First Lady.