Chappaquiddick Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A Kennedy drives a car into a pond and now has to lie to get out of trouble, and his family helps because they are rich and powerful, and also maybe he killed someone.

🍿 Chappaquiddick: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Setting the Stage: Ted Kennedy’s Ambitions

In 1969, Ted Kennedy, a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, grapples with living up to the legacy of his brothers, John and Robert. He’s facing pressure to run for president. The film depicts this internal conflict as Kennedy struggles to define his own political identity amidst the weight of his family’s history.

The Party and the Drive

Kennedy hosts a party on Chappaquiddick Island for campaign staffers, including the ‘Boiler Room Girls’ who worked on Robert’s campaign. After the party, Kennedy offers to drive Mary Jo Kopechne back to Edgartown.

The Accident on Dike Bridge

While driving, Kennedy takes a wrong turn onto Dike Road and drives off the Dike Bridge into Poucha Pond. Kennedy manages to escape the car, but Kopechne remains trapped inside. This marks the start of the central conflict and the subsequent cover-up.

The Aftermath and Cover-Up

Instead of immediately reporting the accident, Kennedy returns to his hotel and enlists the help of his cousin, Joe Gargan, and lawyer Paul Markham. A series of questionable decisions and delays follow, motivated by protecting Kennedy’s political career.

Family Intervention and Damage Control

The Kennedy family, including patriarch Joseph Kennedy, intervenes, bringing in strategists like Robert McNamara and Ted Sorensen to manage the situation. The film highlights the extent of the family’s influence and their efforts to control the narrative.

The Inquest and Public Scrutiny

An inquest is launched, bringing the events under public scrutiny. Kennedy faces intense pressure and scrutiny as inconsistencies in his story emerge, leading to a complex web of legal and political maneuvering.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ted Kennedy (Jason Clarke): A U.S. Senator struggling with his family legacy, who is involved in a fatal car accident and attempts to manage the fallout.
• Mary Jo Kopechne (Kate Mara): A young campaign strategist and Kennedy insider, whose life is tragically cut short in the Chappaquiddick incident.
• Joseph Gargan (Ed Helms): Ted Kennedy’s cousin and lawyer, who acts as his conscience and attempts to guide him towards the right course of action.
• Joseph Kennedy (Bruce Dern): The demanding and influential patriarch of the Kennedy family, who is focused on protecting his family’s image and political power.
• Paul Markham (Jim Gaffigan): A U.S. Attorney and friend of the Kennedys, who is complicit in the attempts to manage the scandal.
• Robert McNamara (Clancy Brown): Former U.S. Defense Secretary and member of the Kennedy’s inner circle, who advises Ted on managing the crisis.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Joseph Kennedy: “You’ll never be great.” – Joseph Kennedy tells Ted Kennedy that he will never be great like his brothers.
• Ted Kennedy: “I’m not sure what I did.” – Ted says to Joe Gargan after the crash, highlighting his confusion and potential denial.
• Joe Gargan: “Mary Jo is the victim, not you.” – Highlights the moral core of the film and the tragedy of Mary Jo’s death.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $13,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $17,395,520
• Worldwide Gross: $18,263,470

💥 Chappaquiddick Reviews

Personal Review

As a movie fan, I found ‘The Senator’ gripping. Jason Clarke’s portrayal of Ted Kennedy had me hooked. Kate Mara, gave so much heart to Mary Jo Kopechne. The film didn’t shy away from the hard questions. The atmosphere was tense, and the movie kept me thinking about the characters and the events. I will watch this movie again.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Viewers interested in political dramas”
  • “History buffs interested in the Kennedy era”
  • “Those fascinated by true crime and cover-ups”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Depiction of a fatal car accident”
  • “Discussion of political scandals and ethical dilemmas”
  • “Brief scenes of alcohol consumption”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Chappaquiddick tells a compelling story with strong performances, particularly from Jason Clarke. While the film takes a clear stance on the events, it’s a well-crafted and thought-provoking drama that invites viewers to reflect on power, privilege, and responsibility.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Though sometimes slow-paced, the film benefits from strong performances, notably Jason Clarke’s portrayal of Ted Kennedy. It raises uncomfortable questions about the Kennedy legacy and the lengths powerful people go to protect their image.
• The New York Times: “While ‘Chappaquiddick’ handles a sensitive subject, it presents a compelling narrative about a tragedy and its aftermath. Jason Clarke’s performance captures the complexity of Ted Kennedy, while Kate Mara gives depth to Mary Jo Kopechne’s character.

Audience Reactions

Jason Clarke’s performance as Ted Kennedy was believable and compelling, making him the movie highlight.: Most viewers appreciated the strong performances, historical accuracy and the film’s willingness to tackle a controversial event.

The film raised questions about the ethical implications of power and the lengths people will go to protect their image.: Viewers found it thought-provoking and appreciated the historical retelling.

Overall Consensus: A gripping film, praised for the performances of the actors, particularly Jason Clarke’s, and the way the story raises questions about power and political ethics.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was originally titled ‘Chappaquiddick’ but was released as ‘The Senator’ in some markets.”
• “Director John Curran aimed for a balanced portrayal, focusing on the known facts and avoiding sensationalism.”
• “Jason Clarke prepared extensively for the role, studying Kennedy’s mannerisms and speech patterns.”
• “The filmmakers meticulously recreated the atmosphere of 1969 Martha’s Vineyard, including the cars and clothing.”

🖥️ How to Watch Chappaquiddick?

As of October 26, 2023, ‘The Senator’ (originally titled ‘Chappaquiddick’) is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your preferred streaming service for availability in your region and specific purchase or rental options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Chappaquiddick, you might like these similar films:

• All the President’s Men (1976): Explores the unraveling of a political scandal through investigative journalism, similar to the scrutiny surrounding Chappaquiddick.
• Thirteen Days (2000): Focuses on the Kennedy administration during a crisis, showcasing the pressures of leadership and decision-making.
• Frost/Nixon (2008): Deals with the aftermath of a political scandal and attempts to control the narrative, similar to the strategies employed after Chappaquiddick.

🛒 Chappaquiddick Related Products

• Kennedy Tapes: Inside the White House During the Cuban Missile Crisis: This audio documentary offers a real-time glimpse into Kennedy’s presidency during a crucial period. Great for history buffs interested in the political climate of the era.
• The Best and the Brightest: Illuminates the intellectual hubris and political miscalculations that led to the Vietnam War, dissecting the decisions made by Kennedy’s administration.
• Jason Clarke as Ted Kennedy Signed Photo: A photograph of Jason Clarke in his role as Ted Kennedy, autographed by the actor. This is a rare item for any fan of the movie.
• The Kennedy Legacy: A Graphic Novel: A visual retelling of the Kennedy story, focusing on the key events and figures of the era, including the Chappaquiddick incident. Makes the complex history accessible to a broader audience.

🎧 Soundtrack

Chappaquiddick features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Lila” – performed by Fapardokly

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mary Jo Kopechne’s cousin reacts to ‘Chappaquiddick’ film

Ever wondered what Mary Jo Kopechne’s family thought about the movie? Her cousin gives a really interesting and emotional take on the film and the real-life tragedy. It’s definitely worth watching for a different perspective!

The Controversy at Chappaquiddick: Jason Clarke on Playing Ted Kennedy

Want to know what it’s like to step into Ted Kennedy’s shoes? Jason Clarke, who played him in the film, shares some fascinating insights about the role and the Chappaquiddick incident. You might be surprised by what he reveals!

‘Chappaquiddick’ & ‘You Were Never Really Here’ | On Cinema Season X, Ep. 3 | adult swim

Need a laugh after watching ‘Chappaquiddick’? The On Cinema crew hilariously dissects the film with their signature bizarre style. It’s a pretty out-there take, but definitely entertaining if you don’t take it too seriously!

Report: Powerful people tried to stop ‘Chappaquiddick’ film

Did you know some powerful people tried to bury ‘Chappaquiddick’? This report dives into the behind-the-scenes drama and alleged attempts to suppress the film. It’s a wild story that adds another layer to the whole scandal.

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