JFK: 50 Year Commemorative Collection

Much has been made of the accomplishments and failings of JFK as a film by historians and critics far more apt and erudite than myself. As such this review focuses primarily on the 50 Year Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition Blu-Ray release.To begin with, this is perhaps one of the few media releases since the advent of "special editions" that lives up to the title of "ultimate" as there is very little missing from this immense and carefully curated set. As stated in the product description, there is far more included in the box than just Oliver Stone's cut of the film (complete with commentary). Between 5 discs you get one of the most intense and engaging 3+ hour films of all time, 3 enlightening documentaries on both the man, the film and the lasting legacy of what many feel was a government conspiracy, and for the first time on digital media the Cliff Robertson film PT-109. Also included is the JFK episode of Oliver Stone's Showtime series Untold History of the United States, which in my humble opinion is a nice visual companion to Zinn's "A People's History of the United States". If there is a complaint to be made, it's that this episode is included on a separate disc in a cardboard sleeve which doesn't offer the same degree of protection as the plastic case which houses the other discs, but that's a small complaint to be sure.That alone would be enough to justify the "Ultimate" title and the price tag, but that's not all. While many box sets include cheap and questionably collectible novelties, this box set gives you a plethora of museum gift shop quality items. Among them are reproductions of a JFK campaign poster and his inaugural address, printed on good quality gloss and suitable for framing; a copy of the hardcover Applewood Books edition of JFK quotations which by itself retails for $10; reproductions of 20 photographs (also suitable for framing) and correspondence; plus a 44 page photo book with 6 "character cards" related to the film. The last of these is perhaps the least interesting as the character cards consist of nothing but stills from the film and offer no new background or context related to the characters, but that's small potatoes compared to everything else that's included here and the cards are still of a high quality. The correspondence might be of little interest to those who are not JFK-philes, but even as an armchair history enthusiast I found them worth more than a cursory glance.The packaging is exceptional; a striking cover design that stands out on any bookshelf or media organizer and an interior that safely holds all of the above in two snug spaces which means nothing is rolling around loose in the box getting dinged-up edges. The odd component that is common to many box sets and deluxe editions is the backing, which is a loose piece of thick paper showcasing the contents on the back and wrapping around to the top front to let you know that you are holding "The 50 Year Commemorative Ultimate Collector's Edition) - you know, in case you forgot. There is also a neat little sticker that lets you know which of the 50,000 copies you are holding - though unless that number is "1", it's probably a trivial point.The film, as it did upon its release, has a polarizing effect on critics and audiences alike who either blast it for historical inaccuracies (though to be sure there are less glaring faults in the film than in the actual investigation or Warren Commission report), or laud it as one of the greatest films ever made. Whatever side of the fence you fall to, the film's chief accomplishment are, arguably, its implications - not just regarding the events of Nov. 22, 1963 in Dallas, but also of the power and evil lurking in the supposedly unassailable American government. If an objective viewing of the film is possible, view it with Stone's designation as a "counter-myth" in mind - and make up your own mind as to how "true" this version of events is, or perhaps more frightening, could be.Suffice to say that if you are a fan of Oliver Stone, a scholar of JFK or a fan of this movie, and do not already own it in anything other than the bare bones DVD release, make it a point to pick this copy up and rest assured that you have THE definitive release of this powerful and captivating film.

"For in the final analysis, our most basic common link, is that we all inhabit this small planet, we all breathe the same air, we all cherish our children's futures, and we are all mortal." - JFKI bought this for my dad for Christmas, but loved it so much I got one for myself as well! I won't go much into the movie itself - which is grand in scope and long in length, yet keeps you captivated the entire time, in my opinion - because you can read better reviews here and on other websites. I will say that I agree with another reviewer who said "This was never meant to be a documentary. It is a compilation exploring many facets of the case." It is also a compilation of a few major conspiracy theories - though whether they are conspiracy theories or something more is up to you to decide. I will say that Stone makes a pretty compelling argument, though. At the very least, it's a masterfully done, very entertaining drama.What I want to focus on, though, is the amazing commemorative edition this is! If you're a fan of Kennedy or the Kennedys, you'll absolutely love this set. It's a must have for any collector of anything Kennedy! This wonderfully packaged DVD set includes the following:Copy of his inaugural addressCopy of one of his 1960 campaign posters (possibly full sized, but I'm not sure about that)The book "JFK Director's Cut" which is hardcover and tells a behind the scenes story (in brief) of the making of the movie and public reactionA series of cards with the actor in character on one side, and a photo and summary of the real-life person on the backA DVD of the episode of Oliver Stone's Untols History of the United States, "JFK: To the Brink"A book of his quotesA folder containing several nostalgic (5x7?) photos of John F. Kennedy and his family, as well as correspondence to or from JFK, including other heads of state. It also includes, most heartbreakingly, copies of condolences to Jackie Kennedy from Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth.It's quite a tribute.

"JFK" is Oliver Stone's thesis masterpiece about New Orleans DA Jim Garrison's investigation and subsequent prosecution in the Kenneday assasination. This is one of the most controversial films ever made and has been accused of everything from being "revisionist" history to being Stone's liberal propaganda to being a disrepectful call-to-arms against government agencies. The one point of agreement seems to be it is a big, brilliant, and enormously skillful thriller. This film will be studied in film classes and schools for years to come. The Oscar winning editing is truly a feat of artistry given the amount of footage, varying film stocks(35mm, 16mm, 8mm), and enormous tapestry Stone has created here.This "Ultimate Collector's Edition" is just awesome. As a fan of the film, and of Kennedy, this package is full of extras such as several "making of" docs, Stone's own documentary on Kennedy, as well as a number of collectibles such as written correspondence from JFK, a copy of his inaugral address, photos, and much more. Also included is a dvd copy of the film "PT-109", and of course, the Director's Cut of "JFK" on blu-ray. The hi-def transfer is absolutely sumptuous. The various stocks all shining and adding details which heighten the emotion of the film. The huge, all- star cast is a treat, and it is anchored by Kevin Costner's restrained but forceful and moving performance as Garrison.If I have any complaints, its that the theatrical cut of JFK was not included, if for no other reason than for comparing the two cuts.This is a must-own for fans of the movie and fans of JFK himself. "JFK" is not a historical document, its a thesis theory as to what may of happened on November 22, 1963. As long as you understand that, this film proves to be one of the best of the 1990s and the best film Stone has ever made.

This is great for any JFK fan. A very good selection of JFK from his birth to his death. There is a vast amount of material on several DVD’s. It is worth the price if you are interested in this subject matter.

My Father in law is a huge fan!

awesome love it!