The new film from Angel Studios, RFK: Legacy, looks at the history of the United States from the 1960s to today through the lives and legacies of Robert F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These two men, father and son, have had an enormous impact on the country, each in their own ways.

Filmmaker Oliver Stone and his son Sean set out to show how the two men elevated themselves and how each of them set out to improve the lives of others. While RFK never made it to the White House himself, his legacy has woven itself through the history of the last half of the 20th century. And the trajectory of RFK Jr. has also impacted the lives of people in this country and around the world with his investigative efforts and subsequent lawsuits.

RFK went to Harvard and then on to the University of Virginia Law School. RFK Jr. went to Harvard and then on to the University of Virginia Law School. It looked as though the son was about to follow in his father’s footsteps, however there were other forces pulling at RFK Jr. that initially led him away from politics and to the environmental field where he used his talents (and sensitivity) to clean up the rivers, take large companies to court for their carcinogenic ingredients, and eliminate mercury from vaccinations.

The life and career of RFK Jr. is told primarily through his interview with Oliver Stone. They also delve deeply into the assassination of his father in 1968, and Bobby as well as comments from those who also investigated the event. The conclusion might be shocking to many viewers, however it makes more sense than the official findings.

And the assassination of President Kennedy takes on a new perspective with the comments by Bobby who explains what his father knew about the events in Dallas and what he wanted to do about it. These facts might be eye-opening for those who believe in the lone gun theory, however with the recent release of files, they are more compelling and truthful.

Looking back at the career of RFK and how the country was in turmoil during his final years, is a history lesson that delves into specific events and situations. The country was deeply divided and RFK, as well as many others, felt he was the only person who could bring it together and make it whole again. But that was not to be.

As his father wanted to unite the country, so did RFK Jr. who took up the mantle, or the torch, but his voice was silenced by the left. Knowing he had much to give to the country, he joined the Trump team and is now the Secretary of Health and Human Services. His mission is “To Make America Healthy Again.” The MAHA movement is getting criticism by the left but that does not dissuade him from continuing to make life better for Americans. As he said, the notion that he is “anti-vax” is not true. He is for vaccinations as long as they have been thoroughly tested and deemed safe, and wants to make that clear.

Bobby Jr. does not shy away from discussing his past drug addiction, and explains how he became addicted and finally sober. His candid interview is refreshing and explains a lot about the man.

So, by combining the lives and careers of both Robert F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in this one documentary, complete with films and photos, comments and insight from friends and historians, and the memories and statements from RFK Jr., this film is basically a lesson in the history of the country for the last 60 years as well as the careers and devotion to the country of the two men. 

The pursuit of justice and accountability was front and center for Robert Kennedy and is the same for his son. They both faced criticism and were maligned for their views and actions, yet both men put others before themselves.

With the elevation of RFK Jr. on the world stage, the life, career, and assassination of RFK has also been brought to the forefront. Facts, memories, thoughts, and insight combine to bring a well-rounded look at the two men.

Directed by Sean Stone, RFK: Legacy is an important film for today’s audiences. It is mesmerizing, educational, insightful, and captivating.

The film is now streaming on Angel.

Images courtesy Angel Studios

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. Francine is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.