Seven Days in May (1964)

Kirk Douglas plays an advisor who helps the US President uncover evidence of a military takeover of the government from within.

Douglas' direct commander is played by Burt Lancaster, whom the President doesn't trust.

Burt is really unlikable in this film.

Ava Gardner has a small part as Burt's former lover who might hold some secrets to help uncover the plot.

Frederic March plays the President, and he makes a really good one, too; I wished his character was our President today.

It's a really good fictional thriller (though based on some real events). I really liked it. Directed by John Frankenheimer (also directed The Manchurian Candidate).

According to the history blog Boundary Stones, US President John F. Kennedy read and enjoyed the original novel which this film is based, and wanted to see a film made of it. Frankenheimer shot on location in Washington DC, and had the approval of the President, who unfortunately did not live to see the film.

The film was released a few months after President Kennedy's assassination. For audiences at that time, it must have a bit frightening to see such a politically-charged film so soon afterward.

Jacqueline of Another Old Movie Blog discussed this film in an excellent 2016 post here, noting how it remains relevant today.

Bill Crider also wrote about this movie, having remembered the original novel of which it was based, and another good post about this film from Movie Magg.

Visiting Arlington Cemetery (Arlington Virginia, USA)

Last month I went on a work-related trip in the Arlington/Washington DC area, and had an opportunity to visit Arlington National Cemetery, spending about 3 hours on a Sunday morning there before having to catch my plane back home. It was my first time visiting.

At Arlington, soldiers from almost every American war and military battle are buried there, including well known  leaders such as General George S Patton.





Some well know movie legends who served in the military are buried there, including Lee Marvin, Charles Durning, and Jackie Cooper. Also buried there are actresses Constance Bennett and Phyllis Kirk, whose husbands were veterans.

I did not have a chance to visit all of their graves (that might have taken all day to do), but I did see the grave of Audie Murphy, who was the most decorated soldier in WWII, and also acted in the autobiographical film of his life To Hell and Back.

Some Presidents of the US are buried there including John F Kennedy. I got to see his grave; next to it is an eternal flame. Nearby his brothers and father are buried there as well. Here are some additional photos.



Overall it was a very emotional and inspiring experience, and I recommend everyone visit if they are ever in the area. Plan for at least a half day or a day, and plan on lots of walking!