Young Joe, the Forgotten Kennedy

I saw this on television on the late show when I was still in high school. I have yearned to see it again ever since.

From what I remember, a very interesting insight into the grooming of a young American heir apparent.

I was struck by the Family scenes in Boston with Joseph Sr... the famous football games in the yard... (much like the ones we used to have in our own yard when I was a kid) The portrayal of life in a bomber wing in England during WWII during the bombing of Germany... The love story between Joseph Jr. with a woman who may or may not have been an appropriate match. A well crafted film that shows so many moments in the life of a family in a time of crisis. And the ending is superb.

One scene shows a dinner at the Kennedy home after JFK's near scrape with death after the sinking of his PT boat in the Pacific. A guest makes an awkward toast to the "hero of the Kennedy family" to which Joe jr graciously rises and says "To my brother Jack". I remember feeling the thrill of seeing these private moments.

Filmed in Seattle's,Pioneer Square location,this film was big news in '76.I was young and eager to learn the craft, (as this was my 2nd film to be in). The bar room scenes,and Joe as a boy, were favorites.I studied Peter Strauss and Barbara Parkins acting,and they were fantastic in their love scenes! B. Parkins, was very stunning! The war scenes were very realistic,as were the ballroom scenes, filmed in the(then)Olympic Hotel.I met most of the leads and crew, and it one of the highlights of my early career in films,stage and TV.I was only 23 and tried out for the comedy, buddy role...but lost out to a stronger contender! So I was cast in a bit role. I'll never forget the marriage scene! I found the director was very easy to take direction from, and the whole cast and crew worked well together! I wish the film would be played more! I keep watching for it to come on TV (even though I have my own copy)! I've got great memories,I loved working in this film, and loved my experiences in it! Thanks for the memories, Gary Zahnow