Watch John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls

John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls is a moving documentary that chronicles the extraordinary life of the late Arizona senator and war hero, John McCain. The film was released in 2018, shortly after McCain's passing, and was directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Peter Kunhardt. The documentary is a deeply personal portrayal of McCain in his final year of life, as he battles brain cancer and reflects on his remarkable journey. The film offers a rare glimpse into his private life, as he candidly discusses his regrets, triumphs, and legacy with his family and friends.

The film is structured around a series of interviews with McCain, conducted in his Arizona ranch in 2017. These interviews serve as the backbone of the film, as McCain talks about his military service, his time as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, and his political career.

The documentary also includes insights and reflections from a range of political commentators, journalists, and politicians, including former Vice President Joe Biden, former President George W. Bush, and New York Times columnist David Brooks. These interviews provide context and perspective on McCain's legacy, as well as the political and cultural climate that he navigated throughout his career.

The title of the film is drawn from a famous epitaph by the English poet John Donne, which McCain frequently cited in speeches and interviews. It reflects the senator's belief that he was part of a larger struggle for freedom and human dignity, and that his life and struggles had meaning beyond his personal ambitions.

Throughout the film, McCain's courage, integrity, and passion are on full display. He is portrayed as a true American hero, who dedicated his life to public service and the defense of liberty. His famous "maverick" persona is also explored, as the film examines the times when he clashed with his own party and stood up to entrenched interests.

In addition to his political career, the film also delves into McCain's personal life, including his relationships with his wife Cindy and his children. These moments offer a glimpse into the man behind the political legend, and highlight his deep sense of loyalty and humor.

Overall, John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls is a stirring tribute to a remarkable man who lived a remarkable life. The film serves as a reminder of the power of courage, integrity, and sacrifice, and celebrates the enduring legacy of one of America's greatest statesmen.

John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.