We all remember the night the world’s princess was taken away. We remember that fateful day in September 2001. Most recently, we remember the devastation brought to one of America‘s most beloved cities. These events have defined our generation. On June 6th, 1968, an event took place in Los Angeles that not only defined a generation; it changed the course of our nation. This event is the focus of a new feature film starring a who‘s who of Hollywood elite.

Writer/director Emilio Estevez brings us Bobby, the story of the horrible day when Senator Robert Kennedy was shot and killed in the kitchen of the Ambassador Hotel. He tells his story through the eyes of the people staying at the hotel. He tells his story through the eyes of the other people shot that night.

Poll workers, hotel personnel, and guests of the hotel are all depicted in this powerful drama. They were looking to Kennedy to lead our country; to right all the wrongs that plagued our struggling country.

Most of the film centers on their lives. It’s not until the final act that the assassination takes place. Although, the primary focus is on Kennedy and his legacy, the core of this film is about how that legacy affected all Americans.

If there was an Academy award given for best casting, this film would be a shoe in. Anthony Hopkins, Laurence Fishburne, William H. Macy, Demi Moore, Harry Belafonte, Sharon Stone, Helen Hunt, Martin Sheen, and Christian Slater are some of the more experienced players. Don’t forget relative newcomers Lindsay Lohan, Joshua Jackson, Freddy Rodriguez, Nick Cannon, Elijah Wood, and Heather Graham. This is just the tip of the iceberg. A stellar cast in every sense of the word.

Some of the stand out performances could actually earn nominations this year. Sharon Stone was a revelation as the hotel hair stylist. Demi Moore gave one of the strongest performances of her career. Nick Cannon really proved he was more than just a teen bait actor. He was brilliant. Six Feet Under’s Freddy Rodriguez gave a breakout performance that should not go unrecognized. Laurence Fishburne’s role was extremely small, but his scenes were amazing!

I can’t say enough good things about this film. Estevez, who also acted in the movie, has proven he is a force to be reckoned with. A poignant and powerful script. A cast that rivals all casts. A movie that is equally relevant today as it would have been back then.

I was fortunate to attend a private screening of this film, which was followed by a Q & A with some of the cast. Emilio Estevez, Freddy Rodriguez, Christian Slater, Brian Geraghty, and Joshua Jackson were on the panel. Hearing their stories and why they made this film made me realize how important it is for us all to be heard. What a powerful experience! There is humor, sadness, and most importantly, inspiration. A must see! Award season is off and running and this movie will definitely be in the race.

by Thomas Ferguson