Being a big fan of the now classic tv movie "The Missiles of October", I knew I had to see this film when I first heard they were making it. Let's compare them:

While "Missiles" took the point of view of the Kennedys, this film uses that of presidential advisor Kenny O'Donnell as played by Kevin Costner. This decision has it's good and bad points. It gives it a more personal touch but takes perhaps a few liberties with actual historical events as well. I much preferred the style of "Missiles".

Unquestionably the biggest difference between the two films is that "Missiles" showed what happened behind the scenes in the Soviet Union as well as in the U.S., while 13 Days is told strictly from the American side. The counterpoint between the two was immensely interesting and made for a very powerful story. 13 Days feels as if there were a lot of things left out. Things that "Missiles" went into great detail about were glossed over here, mostly for some more scenes with major star Costner.

So how about the cast? Bruce Greenwood and Steven Culp acquit themselves very well but they still pale in comparison to William Devane and Martin Sheen in "Missiles". "Missiles" was an acting tour-de-force with some great character actors like Andrew Duggan, Ralph Bellamy, James Olson, and John Dehner. 13 Days is the Kevin Costner show.

Can you tell which one I like better?

If you want to learn about the Cuban Missile Crisis, about those 13 days in October 1962 in which the world nearly ended, rent "Missiles of October" and leave 13 days to the dwindling number of Kevin Costner fans.

Recommended:
No

Video Occasion: Good for a Rainy Day
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older