Best of Enemies

This documentary explores the iconic televised debates of 1968 between two prominent intellectuals: the liberal Gore Vidal and the conservative William F. Buckley Jr. Originally intended to provide insight into the pressing issues of their time, these heated and dramatic exchanges ultimately shaped the modern era of media-driven public discourse. They marked a pivotal moment when spectacle began to overshadow content, and argument took precedence over substance. “Best of Enemies” examines the intertwined lives of these influential figures and revels in the eloquence and drama of their debates, prompting viewers to consider the impact of television on political discussions in today’s democracy.