All The Way (HBO)

About All The Way (HBO)

"All The Way" is a 2016 HBO film directed by Jay Roach, based on the play of the same name. The film is an exploration of American politics in the 1960s, centered on President Lyndon B. Johnson's term following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The plot delves deep into Johnson's efforts to pass the controversial Civil Rights Act while managing the escalating Vietnam War. This riveting political drama portrays both the public and private challenges faced by Johnson during this critical historical period.

Making / Production

Adapted from Robert Schenkkan's play by the same name, "All the Way" was produced by HBO films in collaboration with Amblin Television, Tale Told Productions, and Moon Shot Entertainment. Jay Roach, famed for his work in both comedy and political dramas, directed the film, bringing to life the tumultuous era of the 1960s with vivid accuracy. The screenplay was authored by Schenkkan himself, ensuring the essence of the original play was not lost in the transition to screen.

Actors

• Bryan Cranston as Lyndon B. Johnson: Cranston delivered a nuanced, powerful performance that captured the complexity and charisma of the 36th President.
• Anthony Mackie as Martin Luther King Jr.: Mackie portrayed the civil rights leader with conviction and grace, highlighting the crucial role King played in the passage of the Civil Rights Act.
• Bradley Whitford as Hubert Humphrey: Whitford portrayed Johnson's loyal vice president with a mix of warmth and political savvy.
• Melissa Leo as Lady Bird Johnson: Playing the First Lady, Melissa Leo provided a profound portrayal of strength, support, and resilience behind the scenes.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Bryan Cranston reprised his role as Lyndon B. Johnson from the stage play onto which the film is based.
• The film recreates many real-life locations from the 60s era, including the White House and the Oval Office.
• Bryan Cranston spent significant time researching and preparing for the role, including listening to Johnson's phone call recordings kept in the Presidential library.

Awards

"All The Way" won a host of awards for its portrayal of this critical period in American history. Bryan Cranston won the Screen Actors Guild Award for his outstanding performance as Lyndon B. Johnson and the film was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Television Movie.

Quotes

• "Democracy is the art of making the inevitable appear to be a matter of wise human choice." - Lyndon B. Johnson
• "I'm going to be President of all the people." - Lyndon B. Johnson
• "We're not asking, we're demanding. Give us the vote!" - Martin Luther King Jr.

Music, Soundtrack

• "All The Way" soundtrack was composed by James Newton Howard, known for his work in over 100 films. The score perfectly encapsulated the tense, dramatic atmosphere of the era.