THE SEATTLE FILM FESTIVAL 2026 REVIEW! Written by Ronald Lamont Canfield and directed by Tony Doupe, A Fateful Weekend takes a new approach to JFK’s assassination. Ronnie (Finley Amirault) is a young boy with no clue about politics, the presidency, or whatnot. However, he is empathetic and can tell that his mom (Eden Eernissee) and grandparents (Leah Lee and Jason Adkins) are in a state of shock and grief. Emotions become tangled as the next is the 6th birthday of Ronnie’s little brother.
“…a new approach to JFK’s assassination.”
The 14-minute short is shot in a hazy dream of remembrance. Scenes come and go as if a fleeting memory, which works perfectly for the story at hand. There is a truth to be found in having a child try to piece together the high emotions of such a national tragedy. The writing isn’t exactly subtle, but it feels authentic and gets the job done nicely.
Doupe doesn’t make JFK’s death feel small even though Ronnie doesn’t get it all. Instead, by focusing on the dual emotions of tragedy and celebration, A Fateful Weekend has a raw sweetness that makes it relatable and truthful. The acting is good, and the directing excels at creating the fog of memory that everyone feels when trying to remember something so long ago.
A Fateful Weekend screened at the 2026 The Seattle Film Festival.
