About John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls (HBO)

"John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a riveting HBO documentary that was released in 2018. This biographical piece profiles the life and political career of Senator John McCain, from his time as a prisoner of war in Vietnam to his three-decades-long career in the U.S. Senate. This includes his two presidential runs in 2000 and 2008, as well as his perspective on the current political climate at the time of filming.

Making / Production

"John McCain: For Whom the Bell Tolls" was produced by HBO Documentaries and directed by Peter Kunhardt, George Kunhardt, and Teddy Kunhardt. Most of the film focuses on interviews with McCain himself, as well as those who were closest to him.

Actors

• John McCain as Himself - The late U.S. Senator gives a candid and engaging account of his life and career in this documentary.
• Joe Biden as Himself - The former U.S. Vice President and current President offers his perspective on his longtime colleague and friend.
• Barack Obama as Himself - The 44th President of the United States provides commentary on the political landscape during McCain's service.
• George W. Bush as Himself - The former U.S. President reflects on his political relationship with McCain.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title of the documentary, "For Whom the Bell Tolls," is named after John McCain’s favorite novel written by Ernest Hemingway.
• The documentary was released while McCain was still alive but dealing with his terminal illness, brain cancer.

Quotes

• "I stand for the things that I believe in and the country that I love" - John McCain
• "He was this man who was my friend, my confidante, but he was also my example" - Joe Biden

Music, Soundtrack

• The powerful and emotive score was crafted by composer Paul Brill.