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Primary is a groundbreaking documentary film directed by Robert Drew, which chronicles the 1960 Wisconsin Democratic primary election between Senators John F. Kennedy and Hubert H. Humphrey. Shot in cinema verite style, the film provides a candid and intimate look at the behind-the-scenes activities of both campaigns, highlighting the strategies, speeches, and personalities that fueled their respective successes.

The film opens with the scene of JFK and Humphrey arriving in Wisconsin, both looking confident and determined to win the state's primary. The filmmakers then follow the candidates as they crisscross the state, addressing crowds and courting delegates. Humphrey, the underdog, is shown relying on a grassroots, personal approach, while JFK, the front-runner, employs a more polished, media-savvy campaign style.

One of the key themes of the film is the role of the media in the political process. The filmmakers capture several moments where the candidates are surrounded by reporters or giving interviews, and we see how their message is shaped and transformed by the media. JFK is portrayed as especially adept at working the press, while Humphrey struggles to get his message across. We also get glimpses of the intense competition between newspapers, television stations, and wire services as they try to get the best stories and scoops.

Another theme that emerges is the contrasts between JFK and Humphrey's styles and personalities. JFK comes across as charismatic and almost otherworldly, his speeches filled with soaring rhetoric and inspirational promises. Humphrey, in contrast, is more down-to-earth and folksy, frequently engaging in conversation with regular people and emphasizing his Midwestern roots. The film suggests that the choice between these two candidates was, ultimately, a choice between two different visions of America.

Interspersed with footage of the candidates are scenes that feature their families and supporters. We see JFK's wife Jackie, pregnant with their son John Jr., accompanying him on the campaign trail and greeting supporters. We also see Humphrey's wife Muriel, who emerges as a major presence in the film, constantly at her husband's side and providing a window into his personal life. There are also shots of young campaign volunteers, hopeful and full of energy, as well as elderly citizens who have been voting for decades.

Despite the film's limited focus on one primary election, there are many moments that feel like they presage later political events. For example, there are several scenes where candidates are confronted by protesters, often disagreeing with their stances on civil rights or the Vietnam War. There is also a debate between JFK and Humphrey that is later seen as a precursor to Kennedy's iconic debates with Richard Nixon in the following presidential election.

Overall, Primary is notable for its innovative filmmaking style, which was groundbreaking for its time. Director Robert Drew pioneered the use of portable, sync-sound cameras, allowing for much greater flexibility and spontaneity in filming. This approach lends the film an immediacy and intimacy that feels almost startling at times. We get to see the candidates and their surroundings in a way that is much more vivid and authentic than what we are used to from traditional news footage.

In the end, Primary stands as a fascinating time capsule of a pivotal moment in American political history. It captures the excitement and drama of a hard-fought primary battle, while also providing a revealing look at the people and forces that shape our political landscape. Whether you are a political junkie, a history buff, or simply a fan of great documentary filmmaking, Primary is a must-see.

Primary is a 2003 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.