Gore Vidal: The United States of Amnesia

He was an author, screenwriter, essayist, critic, provocateur, troublemaker, politician and scholar: Gore Vidal, one of America’s most brilliant 20th century thinkers. Shortly before his death, filmmaker Nicholas Wrathal got the chance to interview the 86-year-old about the current state of America. Consequently, this film focuses primarily on Vidal’s political views. Raised in a family with high social and political connections, including the Kennedys, Vidal asserted his right, lifelong, to publically question everybody and everything. Historical footage of his numerous appearances is combined with interview material and statements made by those closest to him to create a comprehensive image of this highly intelligent, indefatigable lateral thinker. One question has emerged above all others since Vidal’s death: Who will now pick up the verbal bludgeon that America apparently so desperately needs?