Watch Killing Lincoln

Killing Lincoln is an American historical drama film that was released in 2013. Based on the best-selling book by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard, the movie explores the events surrounding the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. The film features a star-studded cast, including Academy Award winner Tom Hanks as the narrator, Regen Wilson as Abraham Lincoln, and Billy Campbell as John Wilkes Booth. Killing Lincoln is directed by Adrian Moat, with a screenplay by Erik Jendresen.

The movie takes the audience on a journey through the final days of President Lincoln's life, revealing the political turmoil and personal struggles that plagued the nation during the Civil War. Through a combination of dramatic reenactments and historical recordings, the film paints a vivid picture of the era, immersing viewers in the events leading up to the fateful night at Ford's Theatre.

At the heart of the story is the relationship between Lincoln and Booth. The movie portrays Booth as a frustrated actor and Confederate sympathizer who becomes increasingly fixated on the idea of killing Lincoln. He enlists the help of a group of fellow conspirators, and the film shows how they plot and carry out the assassination.

However, Killing Lincoln is not just about the assassination itself. The movie also delves into the aftermath of the event, exploring how the country came to terms with the loss of its leader and how Booth's co-conspirators were brought to justice. The film showcases the tireless efforts of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton (played by Geraldine Hughes) to track down those responsible for the assassination and to defend the country against further attacks.

One notable aspect of the film is its attention to historical accuracy. The movie was shot on location in Virginia, and the filmmakers went to great lengths to recreate the settings and costumes of the era. Killing Lincoln also draws heavily on historical accounts of the assassination, including interviews, eyewitness testimony, and contemporary newspaper reports.

The film is gripping and suspenseful throughout, aided by a stirring score and strong performances from the cast. Wilson delivers a powerful portrayal of Lincoln, capturing both his folksy charm and his sense of gravitas as a wartime leader. Meanwhile, Campbell imbues Booth with a menacing energy, showing how his obsession with killing Lincoln eventually consumes him.

Killing Lincoln is a thought-provoking film that sheds new light on a defining moment in American history. It serves as a fitting tribute to Lincoln's legacy and to the sacrifices made by those who fought to preserve the Union. With its meticulous attention to detail and compelling storytelling, the movie is a must-see for anyone with an interest in the Civil War era.

Killing Lincoln is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.