Cert 12 Stars 4

This engrossing political thriller testifies to the continuing power, arrogance and tragedy of the Kennedy political dynasty to fascinate filmmakers.

An outstanding Jason Clarke delivers a complex performance as Ted F. Kennedy, one full of guilt, ambition and self-preservation in the wake of the Chappaquiddick scandal in 1969.

It resulted in the death of Mary Jo Kopechne, a campaign team member of his murdered brother and fellow Senator, Bobby.

Ted’s behaviour in the immediate aftermath tarnished his reputation forever, not least in the eyes of demanding and judgemental patriarch, Joe Kennedy Sr., played by an agreeably poisonous, Bruce Dern.