“Manhunt” (Apple TV+) historical drama.

“Manhunt” (Apple TV+) historical drama, follows (then Secretary of War) Edwin Stanton's search for John Wilkes Booth in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln's assassination, adapted from James L. Swanson's book “Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer.”

       I expected a more compelling narrative or exposition, especially that director Carl Franklin has the ability to keep thrill up amidst a tedious plotline. I still remember 1992's “One False Move.” But there's really nothing very special here.

       In viewing historical cinema, it is imperative to read stuff before or after sitting down. Filmmakers exercise utmost liberty in (re)rereading or reimagining actual events. Notoriously, writers rewrite characters based on current sociocultural “feel.” For example, Mary Simms (portrayed by a stellar Lovie Simone) was given a more significant role than what it was per historical accounts. You may want to google. 

       Companion movie is 2010's “The Conspirator,” directed by Robert Redford. About assassination conspirator Mary Surratt. Better narrative if you don't snooze off midway. Hence the best way, so far, to indulge in the same subject is via reading.

        Try “Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination That Changed America Forever” byBill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard. The book is the first of the “Killing” series of popular history books by O'Reilly and Dugard. 📺🎥📺