The Reel Review
Rock music is not exactly what comes to mind at the thought of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. But this CNN documentary explores how it was his unlikely relationship with stars such as Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan and The Allman Brothers that vaulted this Washington outsider from rural Georgia into The White House in 1976. Not only did rock music help Carter win the election, but it also helped unite a country still reeling from the Watergate scandal.
Director Mary Wharton pulls together fascinating archival footage and terrific interviews with the Carter family and a staggering array of his closest celebrity friends, showing a genuineness often lacking in politics. The quick-paced, hour and a half documentary details his upbringing, unlikely presidential campaign and presidency, as well as his success in the years afterwards. Among its highlights: eradicating guinea worm disease, his winning the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize and his and wife Rosalyn’s efforts with Habitat for Humanity.
Watching this documentary, you definitely get a sense of what a kind-hearted and uniting force Jimmy Carter has been throughout his life, and throughout his wildly successful, post-presidential years. The only drawback – no interview with Rosalyn. The film’s inherit optimism and goodness also serves as a wistful reminder of endearing qualities missing in the politics of today.
REEL FACTS
• At 98 years old and with a 42-year-long retirement, Jimmy Carter was both the oldest living president and the one with the longest post presidency.
• Jimmy Carter made arrangements to be buried in front of his home in Plains, Georgia following a funeral in Washington DC and visitation at The Carter Center in Atlanta.
• In 2000, Carter severed his membership with the Southern Baptist Convention, saying the group’s doctrines did not align with his Christian beliefs.
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