Hell Freezes Over

Rating: 8/10 (4 October 2009)

"For thirteen extraordinary days in October 1962, the world stood on the brink of an unthinkable catastrophe. After the discovery of Soviet weapons in Cuba, events and tension escalate between two military superpowers and within the White House. President John F. Kennedy (Bruce Greenwood), Bobby Kennedy (Steven Culp) and Special Assistant to the President Kenneth P. O'Donnell (Kevin Costner) are in the hot seat as they struggle to prevent nuclear war," according to the DVD sleeve's synopsis.
This is an excellent dramatization of the "Cuban Missile Crisis"; probably, it is a more accurate, more detailed explanation of events than was given to the American public at the time. Interestingly, it focuses on adviser Kenny O'Donnell; as portrayed by Mr. Costner, he is almost as important a player as the Kennedy brothers. Writer David Self and director Roger Donaldson stick with what actually happened, or what conceivably happened; unlike Oliver Stone's 1991 "JFK", which also starred Costner.
Too few organizations recognized "Thirteen Days" during awards season. It did best at the "Satellite Awards", with wins for Conrad Buff IV's excellent editing and Mr. Greenwood's fine portrayal of JFK ("Best Supporting Actor"), along with a nomination for Mr. Self's script. The art/set direction, Mr. Donaldson, and ensemble cast are also award worthy. Mr. Culp's arms-folded portrayal of Bobby Kennedy at his most serious is uncanny. The cast, and crew make old photographs and archival footage come to life.
******** Thirteen Days (12/16/00) Roger Donaldson ~ Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, Steven Culp, Dylan Baker