Kingfish: A Story of Huey P. Long

Huey P. Long, Jr., the most reviled politician ever to test the boundaries of American democracy. Long built a dynasty of public goodwill on a foundation of private dishonesty., Originally made for cable television, this biographical drama chronicles the life of Huey P. Long (John Goodman), whose corrupt political machine dominated Louisiana for years. The movie opens with a 1930’s newsreel giving a report on Long’s plan to a run for U.S. President while depicting him as a demagogue in the tradition of Hitler and Mussolini. Shortly after the newsreel, Long is gunned down by an assassin, and the story is told in flashbacks as he reflects on his rise from humble beginnings, to Governor of Louisiana, and on to U.S. Senator. Long’s power in his home state eventually bordered on dictatorship, but he received widespread support from the poor and disenfranchised because of his populist programs, such as providing free schoolbooks and building rural roads. The film also shows the private man behind the public persona, including a poignant scene at a relative’s funeral where Long’s father reproaches him for lying about his family to garner votes. Goodman was Emmy-nominated for his performance., John Goodman stars as Huey P. Long, Louisiana’s controversial—some might say demagogic—political kingpin of the Depression era. Matt Craven, Anne Heche. Rose: Ann Dowd. Earl: Jeff Perry. FDR: Bob Gunton. Long Sr.: Hoyt Axton. Costello: Kirk Baltz. Directed by Thomas Schlamme.