Is Dead Presidents a True Story? Plot, Cast and More
by S Samayanka
Updated Nov 29, 2023
Dead Presidents
"Dead Presidents," a 1995 American crime film, is co-written, produced, and directed by the Hughes Brothers. The storyline follows Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate) from his teenage years as a high school graduate to his experiences as a Recon Marine in the Vietnam War. Returning to his Bronx hometown, Curtis faces challenges supporting his family, leading him down a path of crime.
The movie draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Haywood T. Kirkland (aka Ari S. Merretazon), detailed in Wallace Terry's book "Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans." Some characters in the film are based on Kirkland's real acquaintances, and certain events loosely depict incidents involving the Black Liberation Army, including the Brink's armored truck robbery. The narrative weaves fiction and reality to explore Curtis's struggles and the impact of war on his life.
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Is Dead Presidents a True Story?
"Dead Presidents" draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Haywood T. Kirkland, also known as Ari S. Merretazon, as detailed in the book "Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans" by Wallace Terry. While the film is not a strict documentary, it incorporates elements from Kirkland's life, blending fact and fiction to create a compelling narrative.
The storyline follows Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate) and his friends as they navigate the challenges of the Vietnam War and their tumultuous lives upon returning to the Bronx. The movie captures the essence of the era, exploring themes of friendship, war, and post-traumatic experiences. While it takes creative liberties for cinematic impact, "Dead Presidents" is grounded in the genuine stories of Black veterans, offering a poignant portrayal of their struggles during and after the Vietnam War.
Dead Presidents Plot
Set in the North East Bronx during the spring of 1969, "Dead Presidents" follows Anthony Curtis, a high school graduate who opts for the U.S. Marine Corps over college. Sent to Vietnam, he endures the horrors of war, witnessing atrocities committed by his own squad. Returning to the Bronx in 1973, Anthony finds his friends scarred by the war Skip is an Agent Orange victim, Jose an amputee, and Cleon a minister haunted by his past. Struggling to support his family, Anthony, along with friends and allies, plans an armored car heist.
The heist turns disastrous, resulting in casualties and betrayals. Kirby is arrested, Skip succumbs to heroin, and Cleon is apprehended after betraying the group. Anthony, facing a harsh sentence despite his military service, erupts in anger in the courtroom. The film concludes with Anthony, now a convict, gazing out of a prison bus window, encapsulating the tragic consequences of post-war struggles and the pursuit of desperate choices.
Dead Presidents Cast
Larenz Tate
Anthony Curtis
Keith David
Kirby
Chris Tucker
Skip
Bokeem Woodbine
Cleon
Freddy Rodríguez
Jose "Joe"
Rose Jackson
Juanita Benson
N'Bushe Wright
Delilah Benson
Alvaleta Guess
Mrs. Benson
James Pickens Jr.
Mr. Curtis
Jenifer Lewis
Mrs. Curtis
Michael Imperioli
D'Ambrosio
Clifton Powell
"Cutty"
Elizabeth Rodriguez
Marisol
Terrence Howard
"Cowboy"
Lee Tergesen
Lieutenant Dugan
Tony Sirico
Officer Spinelli
Robert LuPone
Attorney Salvatore Rizzo
Martin Sheen (uncredited)
The Judge
Actor
Character
Where to Watch Dead Presidents?
You can watch "Dead Presidents" on several streaming platforms, including fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, and Hoopla. If you're open to paid streaming services, fuboTV and MGM Plus Amazon Channel are viable options. Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel also provides access.
For those looking for free options, Hoopla might be worth considering. Availability may vary by region, so it's recommended to check these platforms for the most current information on streaming options.
Dead Presidents Trailer
Is Dead Presidents a True Story? - FAQs
The movie draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Haywood T. Kirkland, detailed in the book "Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans" by Wallace Terry.
The film explores the struggles of Anthony Curtis, a Vietnam War veteran, as he faces challenges in post-war Bronx, delving into themes of friendship, war, and post-traumatic experiences.
The movie is available for streaming on platforms like fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, and Hoopla.
Key characters include Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate), Kirby (Keith David), Skip (Chris Tucker), Cleon (Bokeem Woodbine), and Jose "Joe" (Freddy Rodríguez), among others.
While not a strict documentary, the film blends fact and fiction, incorporating real-life experiences to create a compelling narrative about the struggles of Black veterans during and after the Vietnam War.