A superb HBO Production directed by John Frankenheimer. Provocative and insightful. I don't vouch that the story is even-handed, but none the less informative, interesting and believable. President Johnson(Michael Gambon)painfully watches his plans for a "Great Society" crumble as the war in Viet Nam escalates. Most impressive is Alec Baldwin as Robert McNamara. Equally strong is Donald Southerland playing Clark Clifford. Also of note are:Bruce McGill, Tom Skerritt and Philip Baker Hall. This is well packed fodder for those still debating the Viet Nam Conflict. Highly recommended.

What a terrific way to finish a career for a film maker. John Frankenheimer, one of my all time favorites, gives here an outstanding proof that he remains the best in his part. I find here the same virtuosity as he had in his early years, remember when he worked for television in ninety minutes shows. yes it is very same way of filming and directing actors. It is very poignant to watch and appreciating such powerful performances. Looke like a TV movie from the eighties, those speaking of Roosevelt, Ike, Truman and so on. Thanks Mr Frankenheimer. RIP.

...on the heels of "The Gathering Storm". "Path to War" begins with Lyndon B. Johnson's inaugural ball and ends with his rejection of candidacy for another term. Between, unlikely Brit-cum-Texan Gambon delivers a masterful portrayal of President Johnson as a crude but sagacious politician who struggled with the demons of the Vietnam era not unlike another American president who served during an unpopular war which tore at the fabric of this country a century before. A well crafted HBO documentary which needs and takes little license with history, "Path to War" will likely prove a spell-binding watch for those interested in American political history and a good historical review for anyone with an interest in the Vietnam era.