Netflix unearths the kennedys: a mythic family drama
Prepare for a deep dive into American royalty. Netflix is set to release “Kennedy,” an eight-episode historical drama that promises to peel back the layers of one of the nation’s most scrutinized and influential families. Forget the sanitized versions; this series aims for a raw, intimate portrayal of the Kennedys, exploring their triumphs, tragedies, and the relentless pursuit of power that defined their legacy.
A glimpse behind the myth
The series, inspired by Fredrik Logevall’s acclaimed biography JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, won’t begin with JFK’s presidency. Instead, it plunges viewers into the 1930s, following the ambitious patriarch, Joe Kennedy Sr., and his wife, Rose, as they navigate the complexities of social and political ascension with their nine children. Sam Shaw, the showrunner and executive producer, has described the Kennedy story as “the closest we have to American mythology—somewhere between Shakespeare and The Bold and the Beautiful.” But he adds a crucial caveat: the series seeks to expose the “human strivings and burdens” that fueled that myth, offering a perspective on our present moment.
The stellar cast assembling
Leading the charge is Michael Fassbender as Joe Kennedy Sr., a role that demands both charisma and a chilling sense of calculation. Laura Donnelly embodies Rose Kennedy, the matriarch holding the family together amidst relentless public attention. The ensemble cast is equally impressive, boasting names like Nick Robinson as Joe Kennedy Jr., Joshuah Melnick as John F. Kennedy, and Hera Hilmar as Inga Arvad, a Danish journalist who became a significant figure in JFK’s life. Adding depth and intrigue are appearances by Wyatt Russell as Charles Lindbergh, Patrick Fischler as Arthur Krock, and Toby Huss as Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Beyond boston: a global stage
While the series begins in the bustling social circles of Boston, it extends far beyond, following Joe Kennedy Sr. as he assumes his role as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom. Expect lavish depictions of London society and a glimpse into the international forces shaping the Kennedy family’s destiny. The production, currently underway in London, promises a visually stunning and historically rich experience.
Filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg, known for his emotionally resonant storytelling, directs both the opening and closing episodes, ensuring a powerful and evocative narrative arc. The series faces the challenge of portraying a family steeped in both admiration and controversy, and early indications suggest a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. A release date remains unannounced, but with such a high-profile cast and meticulous production, “Kennedy” is poised to become a major cultural event.