Best of Enemies captures the legendary 1968 debates between two famed intellectuals and ideological opposites: leftist Gore Vidal and neoconservative William F. Buckley. Their televised sparring shaped a new era of public discourse in the media, demarcating the moment TV’s political ambition shifted from narrative to spectacle.
Join KCPT, American Public Square and UMKC Pi Sigma Alpha for a special screening and discussion of the film Monday October, 10th at 7pm at the UMKC Student Union. Afterweards, we will explore how these debates in 1968 laid the groundwork for a lack of civility politics, which is on full display during this election season. In addition, the League of Women Voters of the U.S. will be in the lobby of the theatre starting at 6:30pm to get people registered to vote. Please come early if you intend to get registered.
This screening is part of KCPT’s Indie Lens Pop-Up series which brings people together for film screenings and community-driven conversations. Featuring documentaries seen on the PBS series Independent Lens, Indie Lens Pop-Up draws local residents, leaders, and organizations together to discuss what matters most, from newsworthy topics to family and relationships.
This event is free and open to the public. All you can eat and drink soda and popcorn provided!