Although we know going in that the Russians backed down during the Cuban Missile Crisis, The movie is no less a spellbinding political thriller. Everything rings absolutely true with the exception of Kevin Costner's Boston accent. It's no contest between Cosnter's lightweight performance and Bruce Greenwood's right on the money portrayal of President John F. Kennedy.
Greenwood keeps up the appearance of grace under extreme pressure.
Whether he's facing up to the Russians or facing down the Pentagon. Director Roger Donaldson generates tremendous suspense. He orchestrates this vivid Docu-Drama like he had no idea which way the Nuclear crisis would play itself out. If the picture is as factual as it claims to be, Bobby Kennedy, superbly played by Steven Culp, was a major player in the brink of war gamesmanship. The film's authentic atmosphere only heightens that scary feeling.