Ryan Murphy’s “Love Story” Scales Down Its Original Ambitions
Ryan Murphy’s new anthology series, “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” premiered on February 12, featuring Paul Anthony Kelly as JFK Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn Bessette. The show explores their whirlwind romance, with their wedding in 1996 serving as a highlight.
Overview of “Love Story”
The series is rooted in the public interest surrounding the couple’s relationship. JFK Jr. became famous as the son of President John F. Kennedy, while Bessette was a Calvin Klein stylist. Their story is framed against the backdrop of JFK Jr.’s glamorous life in New York City, which was often depicted in tabloid coverage during the 1990s.
Key Events and Themes
- Marriage: JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette married in 1996.
- Tragic End: The couple tragically died together in a plane crash in 1999.
- Romantic Ideal: The show attempts to capture their Cinderella-style love story.
The narrative is enhanced by detailed reenactments of their courtship. However, critics suggest that the series stretches a simple love story over nine episodes, which might not be necessary given the content’s nature.
Comparative Analysis with Other Works
This series joins a series of Ryan Murphy productions, each known for its glossy presentation. The engaging storytelling seen in “The People v. O.J. Simpson” contrasts with the more superficial elements found in “Love Story.” While the former fostered critical discussions about race and society, “Love Story” appears less impactful.
Length and Format
“Love Story” consists of nine episodes, with a total runtime between seven and eight hours. To put this in context, classic romantic films like “Ghost” achieve similar storytelling in just over two hours.
Cultural Impact and Comparison
The dynamic between JFK Jr. and Bessette reflects a certain American ideal of romance but lacks the profound societal implications that other historical portrayals, like those of Charles and Diana, convey. Despite JFK Jr.’s political lineage and Bessette’s status as a fashion influencer, their story resonates less meaningfully due to its tragic brevity.
Public Reaction
Viewers may find enjoyment in the show’s aesthetic and the chemistry between the leads. However, the overarching sentiment is that “Love Story” struggles to capture the attention and emotional depth necessary for a compelling narrative. Critics point out that while the visuals may impress, the storytelling could fall flat in terms of engagement.
Ultimately, “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette” seeks to revive interest in a well-known narrative, yet it is up for debate whether it achieves this goal effectively. Considered against the backdrop of Ryan Murphy’s evolving oeuvre, the series invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of celebrity, romance, and American culture.
