About Path To War (HBO)

"Path to War" is an HBO movie released in 2002. Directed by John Frankenheimer, the film is centered around President Lyndon B. Johnson and his cabinet during the escalation of the Vietnam War. The movie provides a dramatic and devastating exploration of Johnson's presidency as he faces the challenge of the Vietnam War and the choice to escalate the military involvement or pursue peace negotiations.

Making / Production

Production of Path to War was carried out under the direction of John Frankenheimer. Known for his work in political dramas, Frankenheimer brings depth to the characters through this compelling piece of historical dramatization. It was produced by HBO Films and was originally aired on HBO Networks in 2002.

Actors

• Michael Gambon as President Lyndon B. Johnson: Gambon portrayed Johnson's struggle between his domestic agenda and the Vietnam War intensively.
• Donald Sutherland as Clark Clifford: Sutherland excellently played Clifford, the trusted adviser in the Johnson administration.
• Alec Baldwin as Robert McNamara: Baldwin depicted McNamara, the Secretary of Defense, with a deep understanding of his role in the war’s escalation.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Path to War was the last movie that director John Frankenheimer made before his death.
• Michael Gambon, who plays Lyndon B. Johnson, is actually British.
• The movie was filmed in the United States and provides an accurate portrayal of the era it represents.

Awards

The film was nominated for several awards. Michael Gambon was nominated for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film at the 60th Golden Globe Awards.

Quotes

• "The greatest leader of the world has his hands tied behind his back... and you did the tying." - Lyndon B. Johnson.
• "These are men’s lives we’re playing with... not toy soldiers." - Robert McNamara.

Music, Soundtrack

• "Sympathy for the Devil" by The Rolling Stones: Used to symbolize the tumultuous times during the late 60s.
• "Path to War" score by Gary Chang: The original score composed by Chang added emotional depth to the narrative.