The Zapruder Film, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

This film is evidence of a conspiracy.

Mr. X
Mr. X

You don't know what you're dealing with. You have no idea.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

But it's all there, right in front of us.

Mr. X
Mr. X

You can’t just look at the film and think you understand. It’s not that simple.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

How could it not be? We have the proof.

Mr. X
Mr. X

Proof? In this case, proof can be manipulated.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

So you’re saying it’s a decoy?

Mr. X
Mr. X

A decoy? No, it’s much more than that.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Then what is it?

Mr. X
Mr. X

It’s about who’s controlling the narrative.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

And who is that?

Mr. X
Mr. X

Follow the money, Garrison.

Oliver Stone’s Investigation, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

We have to pursue this. If we don’t, who will?

Assistant
Assistant

But the pressure is immense. You’re going against the establishment.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

I don’t care! This is bigger than any one of us.

Assistant
Assistant

What if we’re wrong? What if we destroy lives in the process?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Sometimes you have to destroy lives to save a few others.

Assistant
Assistant

That sounds reckless.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Reckless? No, it’s bravery.

Assistant
Assistant

But how do we know we’re even right?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

We’ll never know if we don’t try.

Assistant
Assistant

And if we fail?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Then we die trying.

The Conspiracy Theory, Reelive

Reporter
Reporter

You really believe there was a conspiracy?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

I know there was.

Reporter
Reporter

But you don’t have solid proof.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Proof? What is proof in a world of shadows?

Reporter
Reporter

You sound paranoid.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

No, just enlightened.

Reporter
Reporter

You’re chasing ghosts.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Ghosts? No, I’m chasing the truth.

Reporter
Reporter

And the truth is…?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

The truth is they want us to remain confused.

Opening Argument, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I’m here to reveal a conspiracy.

Defense Attorney
Defense Attorney

Objection! There is no evidence of such a conspiracy.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

No evidence? Is this the world we live in? Is it so far-fetched?

Defense Attorney
Defense Attorney

This is a waste of time!

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

A waste of time? No, I seek justice!

Defense Attorney
Defense Attorney

Justice for who? For what?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

For a nation blinded by its own history.

Defense Attorney
Defense Attorney

This isn't a courtroom for conspiracy theories.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

No, this is a courtroom for the truth.

The Oath, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

You took an oath.

Witness
Witness

An oath? To what?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

An oath to serve the truth.

Witness
Witness

But the truth is dangerous.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Dangerous? Yes, but necessary.

Witness
Witness

I might lose everything.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Or you might gain your freedom.

Witness
Witness

Freedom at what cost?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

The cost of living with honesty.

Garrison's Reflection, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Sometimes I feel like I’m losing everything.

Wife
Wife

You’re fighting for something bigger.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

But at what cost? My family?

Wife
Wife

Your family needs you to fight.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

It feels like a war.

Wife
Wife

It is a war, Jim. A war for truth.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

And what if I fail?

Wife
Wife

You won’t. You have to believe in yourself.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Belief doesn’t always translate to victory.

Wife
Wife

Sometimes it’s about the fight itself.

The Final Scene, Reelive

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

The truth is laid bare! They did this!

Supporter
Supporter

What can we do?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

We rally. We don’t let them forget.

Skeptic
Skeptic

And what if they come for us?

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Let them! This fight isn’t just ours.

Supporter
Supporter

It’s our children’s future!

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Exactly! We owe it to them!

Skeptic
Skeptic

You have to have proof.

Jim Garrison
Jim Garrison

Proof isn’t always tangible.

Supporter
Supporter

It’s the principles we're fighting for!

Jim Garrison

There’s a time for questioning, and a time for accepting. The world is not for the fainthearted.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

The conspiracy is real and the consequences are real.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

We are in the midst of a national tragedy. And we cannot turn away.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

The past is never dead. It’s not even past.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

I know it was you, you had to be taken care of. To a lot of people it wouldn’t make sense but to me it does.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

We all have our own truths.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

It’s a conspiracy, and we’re part of it. We live the cover-up.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

The system is rigged. The interests of the few outweigh the interests of the many.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

Question everything.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

If you want the truth, you have to suffer.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

The truth is like a stone. It may be buried, but it will always rise to the surface.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

Who benefited? Follow the money.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

We have a tragedy to unravel.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

It’s a simple fact: the more you know, the less you can trust.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

To those of you who think you are safe, listen carefully to what I’m about to tell you.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

You don’t have to work to keep the truth hidden, but you have to work your ass off to uncover it.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

A dark shadow has fallen over this nation.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

You think you’re free? You are all prisoners of this lie.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

I will never stop fighting for the truth.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

History is written by the victors, but the truth, my friends, is never far behind.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

It’s only when we question what we believe that we can understand the truth.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive
Jim Garrison

No one is above the law, not even the President of the United States.

Jim Garrison

JFK, Reelive

The Look of Love

The Look of Love by Dusty Springfield, Played during a romantic scene

Ain't That a Kick in the Head

Ain't That a Kick in the Head by Dean Martin, Used in a bar scene

For What It's Worth

For What It's Worth by Buffalo Springfield, Background music during protest scenes


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The Assassination

In a grainy flash of historical footage, the moment John F. Kennedy is shot unfolds in slow motion. The shock of the crowd, the chaos in the car, and the blood-curdling cries create a visceral atmosphere. We see Jacqueline Kennedy scrambling to retrieve a piece of her husband’s skull, an image that symbolizes the terror and devastation of that day.

Context: This moment is the catalyst for the entire film, setting in motion the investigation into his assassination and the conspiracy theories that follow.

New Orleans Investigation

As Jim Garrison begins his investigation, we see him piecing together clues in a chaotic montage. The visuals switch between newspaper clippings, interviews, and frantic conversations. The weight of the world rests on Garrison's shoulders as he fights against insurmountable odds.

Context: This investigation denotes the beginning of Garrison’s quest for truth, showcasing his determination despite the seemingly overwhelming opposition.

David Ferrie’s Confession

Garrison confronts David Ferrie in his dimly lit room. With palpable tension, Ferrie begins to unravel, revealing fragments of what he knows. His shaky demeanor and hesitant words heighten the sense of danger and urgency.

Context: Ferrie’s confession indicates the complexities of the conspiracy, making it clear that Garrison is only scratching the surface.

The Zapruder Film

The investigation leads to a chilling viewing of the Zapruder film. Garrison and his team watch in horror as the moment of assassination is played back. The stunned silence captures the grim reality of what occurred that day.

Context: This moment serves as a stark reminder of the tragedy, fueling the emotions of Garrison and the audience alike.

Alan Dulles Interview

In a chilling interview, Garrison talks to former CIA Director Alan Dulles. The dialogue is heavy with implication, suggesting that powerful figures may have been involved in the assassination. Dulles's calm demeanor masks a deeper threat.

Context: This exchange adds layers to the conspiracy theory, illustrating the interconnectedness of power and tragedy.

Garrison’s Family Strain

Garrison's intense work begins to fracture his family relationships. We see him argue with his wife over his obsession with the case. The emotional weight of his work pulls at their family ties, highlighting his loneliness.

Context: This illustrates the personal cost of Garrison’s quest for truth, making his determination even more poignant.

The Trial Begins

As the court case starts, the tension is palpable. Garrison delivers a powerful opening statement. The way he addresses the jury, filled with passion and urgency, grabs the audience's attention.

Context: The trial marks the climax of Garrison's journey, showcasing the risks involved in his pursuit of justice.

The Pentagon Papers

During a discussion about the Pentagon Papers, Garrison realizes that the layers of deception in government run deep. The visuals reflect his growing understanding of a larger conspiracy at play.

Context: This moment reflects the broader themes of mistrust in government and the search for truth amidst propaganda.

The Final Discovery

Garrison uncovers a critical piece of evidence, leading him to a dark conclusion about the nature of the conspiracy. His eyes widen with disbelief and terror, beautifully captured by the cinematography.

Context: This discovery shapes the finale of the film, driving home the gravity of what Garrison has been searching for.

The Credibility of Garrison

Garrison faces backlash from the media and the establishment. We see him isolated and attacked by the public, yet he stands resolute, his voice firm in the face of adversity.

Context: This moment reflects the larger theme of standing up against powerful entities, illuminating Garrison's character as a beacon of justice.

The Moment of Doubt

In a moment of introspection, Garrison breaks down while reflecting on the implications of his findings. The raw emotion captures the weight of what he has uncovered, highlighting his frustrations and fears.

Context: This scene illustrates Garrison's vulnerability, making him more relatable and human.

The Impact of Loss

The emotional toll of the investigation weighs heavily on Garrison as he receives a phone call about a colleague’s assassination. The despair in his face conveys the high stakes of pursuing the truth.

Context: This moment underscores the dangers associated with unearthing the truth in a world riddled with deceit.

An Argument with His Colleague

Garrison has a heated discussion with a colleague, whose cynicism about the government reflects a broader disillusionment. Their clash showcases the differing philosophies on truth and justice.

Context: This serves to deepen the thematic exploration of idealism versus realism within the movie.

The Public Rally

At a public rally, Garrison speaks passionately about justice and the importance of questioning the narrative. The energy in the crowd is electric, reflecting a moment of unity and resistance.

Context: This rally helps to galvanize public sentiment, showing that Garrison's fight has become a larger movement.

The Confrontation with the Charisma of Lee Harvey Oswald

The inquisitive nature of Garrison leads him to Oswald’s mother, where her sorrow and her son's tragic fate stir emotions. The duality of public perception versus personal loss is explored.

Context: This encounter reveals the human side of Oswald, complicating the narrative of guilt and innocence.

Dinner Table Scene with Family

During dinner, a casual conversation takes a darker turn as Garrison's children sense the tension in their father. Their innocent questions highlight the encroaching darkness of adult issues.

Context: This further emphasizes the personal stakes in Garrison’s pursuit of truth.

Final Courtroom Scene

In the climax of Garrison’s trial, he delivers a powerful closing argument. The camera captures the raw emotion in his face as he implores the jury to seek justice against powerful forces.

Context: This moment solidifies Garrison's resolve and his dedication to seeking the truth, regardless of the backlash.

The Return of a Stranger

An unexpected visitor shows up at Garrison’s office, claiming to have vital information. This sudden twist injects a fresh wave of hope, but also a sense of danger into the narrative.

Context: This moment keeps the audience on edge, reinforcing the theme of constant danger surrounding those who seek the truth.

The Underground Meeting

Garrison attends an underground meeting with other conspiracy theorists. The murky atmosphere thickens the air with tension, and ideas are exchanged about governmental deceit, hinting at layers of hidden agendas.

Context: This underscores the reach of the conspiracy, adding depth to Garrison's findings.

Garrison’s Reflection

At the end, Garrison reflects on the lost truth permeating society. His expression conveys deep contemplation over the nature of justice versus the cost of pursuing it.

Context: This contemplative moment serves as a poignant conclusion, leaving viewers with unanswered questions.

The Power of Fear

A powerful scene reveals fear tactics employed by those in power to silence whistleblowers. Garrison's anger is palpable, driving home the costs of seeking the truth.

Context: This exposes a systemic issue, resonating with the overarching themes of fear and control in society.

Ending Sequence

The film culminates in a haunting montage of images and news clippings that show the ongoing impact of JFK's assassination on American society, set to a somber score. This sequence evokes a sense of loss and unresolved questions.

Context: This powerful ending connects the past to the present, leaving viewers to ponder the consequences of political corruption.


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Director Oliver Stone's Vision

Oliver Stone initially wanted to create a documentary-style film about the assassination of President Kennedy but shifted to a fictional narrative due to budget constraints and the desire for creative storytelling.

Why it matters: This decision allowed Stone to employ dramatic reenactments and creative liberties that enhanced the film's emotional resonance and engaged audiences in a way a traditional documentary may not have.

Casting of Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner was not the first choice for the role of Jim Garrison. Actors such as Al Pacino and Robert Redford were considered before Costner landed the role.

Why it matters: Costner's portrayal became iconic and allowed him to break further into serious roles, giving Garrison a relatable yet determined persona that resonated with audiences.

Re-enactment Techniques

To convincingly portray the events surrounding the assassination, the filmmakers used a mix of real archival footage and reenactments to create a sense of authenticity.

Why it matters: This blending of fact and dramatization provided viewers with a visceral experience of the events, prompting them to question the narratives they were familiar with.

Joe Pesci's Character Development

Joe Pesci's character, David Ferrie, was originally intended to have a lesser role, but Pesci's dynamic performance led to expanded scenes and more significant character depth.

Why it matters: His portrayal added layers of intrigue and highlighted the shady, conspiratorial elements surrounding the assassination, enriching the film's complexity.

Filming Locations

The film was shot in various cities, including New Orleans, where Jim Garrison conducted much of his investigation, to provide an authentic backdrop to the narrative.

Why it matters: Using real locations allowed for a deeper connection to the story and contributed to the film's realistic atmosphere, engaging viewers in a historical context.

The Impact of the Score

John Williams composed the score for 'JFK,' which included haunting and patriotic themes that enhanced the film's emotional weight.

Why it matters: The score not only elevated crucial scenes but also set the tone for the film's exploration of loss and conspiracy, becoming one of Williams' memorable soundtracks.

Editing Choices

Editor Alex Cox used unconventional editing techniques, including rapid cuts and juxtaposition of various archival images, to create a sense of urgency and confusion reflecting Garrison's investigation.

Why it matters: These choices crafted a unique narrative flow that captured the feeling of conspiracy and helped convey the complexity of the investigation in a digestible manner.

Dr. Oliver Stone's Research

Oliver Stone conducted extensive research for the film, including reading over 1,000 books on the assassination and interviewing Garrison himself before making creative decisions.

Why it matters: This dedication to research lent the film credibility and depth, allowing it to present various conspiracy theories in an informed manner while inviting viewers to question historical narratives.

The Pentagon's Reaction

The Pentagon was reportedly concerned about the film, feeling that it could stir public opinion against the government due to its controversial content.

Why it matters: This reaction underscored the powerful effect of the film and its potential to challenge the established narrative regarding the assassination, sparking discussions about government transparency.

Production Challenges

The production faced numerous challenges, including legal issues and script rewrites, which pressured the timeline and creative direction.

Why it matters: These hurdles led to unique storytelling choices that might not have emerged otherwise, adding unexpected depth to character arcs and plot development.

Garrison's Real-Life Family

Jim Garrison's family was portrayed in the film, which included insights from his daughter, who shared personal anecdotes about him during the film's development.

Why it matters: Including Garrison's family perspective added emotional weight to his character and made the portrayal more relatable and humanized.

Unique Camera Techniques

Cinematographer Robert Richardson employed specific camera techniques such as the use of handheld cameras to capture the intensity of Garrison's investigation.

Why it matters: This created a sense of immediacy and intimacy, allowing viewers to feel like active participants in the unfolding drama rather than mere spectators.

Historical Accuracy vs. Drama

The film occasionally sacrificed strict historical accuracy for dramatic effect, presenting theories and speculation alongside established facts for storytelling purposes.

Why it matters: This mixture blurred the lines between reality and fiction, provoking audiences to think critically about history and its interpretation.

The Arresting Opening Scene

The film opens with the assassination using a dramatic, slow-motion technique, which later became a signature style for Stone's cinematic storytelling.

Why it matters: This choice instantly captivated audiences and set a gripping tone for the investigation that followed, anchoring the film's narrative in shock and intrigue.

Interviews with Experts

During production, Oliver Stone interviewed various conspiracy theorists and historians to gather insights and theories that shaped the film’s dialogue.

Why it matters: This input enriched the script and provided a platform for diverse perspectives on the assassination, contributing to its layered narrative.

Cameo of Historical Figures

The film featured several cameos from actors portraying historical figures related to the assassination, some of whom had personal connections to the events.

Why it matters: These cameos lent a sense of authenticity and provided viewers with a broader context for the conspiracy theories explored in the film.

Realistic Prop Weapons

The prop weapons used during the film's reenactments were designed for realism, meticulously crafted to resemble actual firearms used in the assassination.

Why it matters: This attention to detail contributed to the film's authenticity and heightened the tension during dramatic scenes surrounding the assassination.

The Role of Screenwriters

Screenwriters Zachary Sklar and Oliver Stone collaborated closely to weave multiple narratives and theories into the script, which evolved significantly during production.

Why it matters: Their partnership resulted in a complex narrative that engaged audiences and sparked debate long after the film's release.

Cultural Impact

Upon its release, 'JFK' reignited discussions about the assassination and conspiracy theories, influencing public perception and fueling skepticism toward government narratives.

Why it matters: The film's cultural impact extended beyond cinema, shaping discussions of trust in media and government that resonate in contemporary society.

Stephen King's Cameo

Author Stephen King has a brief cameo in the film, playing a small yet memorable role as a spectator during Garrison's investigation.

Why it matters: This unexpected appearance delighted fans and highlighted the intersection of literature and film within the context of conspiracy themes.

Language of Conspiracy

The dialogue throughout the film was intentionally crafted to reflect the jargon and theories surrounding the conspiracy community, contributing to the film's critical tone.

Why it matters: This choice engaged dedicated conspiracy theory enthusiasts while creating a layered experience for casual viewers, enhancing the film's intellectual depth.

Screen Testing and Audience Reaction

Before its release, 'JFK' underwent several screenings to gauge audience reactions, which prompted further edits to sharpen the storyline.

Why it matters: Feedback from these viewings helped fine-tune the film's pacing and flow, leading to a more cohesive narrative that resonated with viewers.

Warren Commission Reference

The film frequently references the Warren Commission Report, presenting its conclusions alongside counterarguments that question its validity.

Why it matters: By addressing this official account, the film challenged viewers to reassess accepted narratives while delving into historical interpretation and skepticism.

The Power of Visual Storytelling

Art Director Richard Silman created detailed historical sets, immersing the audience in the film's period and fostering authenticity in the narrative.

Why it matters: These efforts in set design contributed to the film's immersive experience, making events more impactful and resonant for audiences.

Editing for Emotion

Oliver Stone worked closely with editor Joe Hutshing to carefully craft emotional peaks and valleys throughout the film, adding tension and drama.

Why it matters: This meticulous approach to editing transformed the viewing experience into an emotional journey, elevating the thematic exploration of truth and justice.

Legacy of Debate

The film's release renewed interest in the Kennedy assassination and birthed a variety of published materials, documentaries, and discussions surrounding conspiracy theories.

Why it matters: As a result, 'JFK' cultivated an enduring legacy and significantly influenced pop culture's portrayal of conspiracy theory and historical events.


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