John Travolta’s Film ‘November 1963’ Focuses on JFK Assassination Now Available from Ketchup Entertainment
EXCLUSIVE: Ketchup Entertainment has acquired the North American rights to the John Travolta-led crime thriller November 1963. The film is set for a theatrical release across 1,000 theaters in the fourth quarter of this year.
Directed by two-time Oscar nominee Roland Joffé, known for The Killing Fields and The Mission, the film presents a new perspective on the assassination of John F. Kennedy. It explores the story through the lens of those operating behind the scenes, where power dynamics are negotiated rather than elected.
The screenplay was penned by Nicki Celozzi, the nephew of infamous mobster Sam Giancana. Celozzi is also producing the film along with Kevin Dewalt of Minds Eye Entertainment. Bonnie Giancana, the daughter of Sam Giancana, serves as an executive producer, drawing from insights shared by her uncle Pepe Giancana, who was present with Sam during pivotal moments leading up to the assassination.
November 1963, based on true events, dramatizes the critical 48 hours surrounding JFK’s assassination, shedding light on the Chicago Outfit’s alleged roles. The narrative incorporates firsthand accounts, particularly from the Giancana family, to illuminate their perspective.
John Travolta stars as Johnny Roselli, a significant figure in organized crime and a connection to the West Coast and Las Vegas criminal operations. Mandy Patinkin features as Anthony Accardo, head of the Chicago Outfit and a formidable crime boss of the era. Dermot Mulroney plays Chuckie Nicoletti, a notorious hitman and bodyguard for Sam Giancana. Robert Carlyle portrays Jack Ruby, a liaison of organized crime, while Jefferson White takes on the role of Lee Harvey Oswald, depicted as a scapegoat in the unfolding drama.
Nicki Celozzi remarked, “The essence of why we are doing this is that it came from Sam Giancana’s brother, Pepe, who was in the room with Sam during these two days. This story specifically focuses on the Chicago Outfit’s involvement in orchestrating the assassination, including a second shooter intended as a fail-safe for the mission.”
Producer Kevin Dewalt highlighted, “This story immerses audiences in the inner workings of the Chicago Outfit and their influence during a pivotal moment in history. With firsthand accounts and a legendary cast, November 1963 is poised to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.”
Gareth West, CEO of Ketchup Entertainment, added, “In a time of societal questioning, this film presents the Kennedy narrative from a fresh perspective—a portrayal that strips away myth and reveals the true nature of these figures. We are excited to bring this film to audiences, showcasing Ketchup’s commitment to bold, distinctive storytelling.”
International sales are being managed by Daniel Baur at K5 International.
The acquisition deal was facilitated by the Paradigm Talent Agency and negotiated by Alan Abrams on behalf of the filmmakers.
