Gripping, involving historical drama; Costner hardly noticeable

Rating: 8/10 (29 January 2001)

Saying you don't notice Kevin Costner I think is one of the highest compliments that can be paid him. He makes great sports movies, but in most other things I get the feeling he's out of his normal water. Especially when he's trying to do an accent. But he was good! I actually didn't mind him trying the Kennedy-speak, and except for that one big clunker in the beginning (hide behind something heavy), it wasn't distracting.
Bruce Greenwood does an excellent as JFK, and Steven Culp as Bobby is almost as impressive. The tension and matter-of-fact cinematography makes it riveting, and even though you know how it ends, you're holding your breath along with the rest of America.