Ethel (2012)

“40 years is a long time. Memories fade and people grow older. ” – Rory Kennedy

Number of Times Seen – 1 (6 Jun 2021)

Brief Synopsis – Documentary about the matriarch of the Kennedy family, Ethel Kennedy who was right besides her husband Robert Kennedy and family during the family’s rise and fall during the 1950’s and 1960’s.

My Take on it – Amazing documentary that really gives the viewer an insiders look at the life of the Kennedy Dynasty.

The fact that this documentary is directed by Ethel Kennedy’s youngest daughter, who was born 6 months after Bobby’s assassination also says so much about the intimate way that the viewer gets to see this family.

The film not only has interviews with Ethel on her role along with Bobby during those times but also with all of their 9 living children who allow the viewer to get an idea as to how the tragedy and triumph of this family affected them as kids and teenagers growing up under such circumstances.

The insight that these family members have are fascinating to hear especially given their closeness to everything that transpired.

The interviews with Ethel tho are the best because they allow the viewer to see into her soul as she responds to her own daughters questions about her life in Camelot that was shattered one late spring day in 1968.

In addition, we get to see her perspective on both Jack and Bobby and everything that happened to them in the 50’s and 60’s.

Ironically, as I was watching this movie, I realized that I was actually watching it on THE very day that Bobby was assassinated 53 years ago.

Many people have said many different things about this family and their history, but getting to see the way that the younger generation see their parents, uncles and aunts is quite fascinating to listen to.

Highly Recommended!

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – The documentary has five days worth of interviews including those with Ethel’s children. (From IMDB)

Rating – Oscar Worthy (9/10)