Unraveling Dead Presidents: True Story, Main Cast, and More

Dead Presidents

Arriving in 1995, “Dead Presidents” is an American crime film co-written, produced, and directed by the Hughes Brothers. The plot spans Anthony Curtis’ journey from high school graduation to his role as a Recon Marine in the Vietnam War. Upon returning to his Bronx hometown, Curtis grapples with the challenges of supporting his family, leading him into a world of crime.

The movie takes cues from the real-life experiences of Haywood T. Kirkland (also known as Ari S. Merretazon), chronicled 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 associates, and certain events loosely mirror incidents involving the Black Liberation Army, such as the Brink’s armored truck robbery. The narrative blends fiction with reality to delve into Curtis’s trials and the war’s impact on his life.

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Is Dead Presidents a True Story?

“Dead Presidents” draws inspiration from the life of Haywood T. Kirkland, also known as Ari S. Merretazon, chronicled in Wallace Terry’s book “Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans.” Although the film isn’t a strict documentary, it incorporates elements from Kirkland’s life, interweaving fact and fiction to craft a gripping storyline.

The narrative follows Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate) and his comrades as they navigate the challenges of the Vietnam War and their tumultuous lives back in the Bronx. The film captures the essence of the era, exploring themes of friendship, war, and post-traumatic experiences. While taking creative liberties for cinematic impact, “Dead Presidents” is rooted 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” tracks 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. Upon his return 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. Despite his military service, Anthony faces a harsh sentence and erupts in anger in the courtroom. The film ends 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

Actor

Character

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

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. For paid streaming services, fuboTV and MGM Plus Amazon Channel are viable options. Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel also provides access. 

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

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