Oliver Stone on RFK Jr., Nordstream, Sy Hersh, Nuclear Power and Climate Change

Summary

In this interview, Oliver Stone reflects on the significance of JFK's 1963 peace speech at American University, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and cooperation among nations. Stone discusses the current geopolitical landscape, advocating for a reevaluation of American foreign policy and the importance of understanding other nations' perspectives. He also touches on his documentary 'Nuclear Now', highlighting the necessity of nuclear energy for a sustainable future and criticizes the media's role in shaping public opinion on critical issues like the Ukraine conflict.

Takeaways

• 😀 The interview begins with an expression of gratitude to the interviewee for participating and acknowledges the significance of discussing alternative perspectives for younger generations.
• 📜 The conversation centers around JFK's peace speech at American University, highlighting its importance and the need for younger generations to understand its message of reconciliation and mutual respect.
• 🎬 The interviewee, Oliver Stone, discusses his film 'Nuclear Now', advocating for nuclear energy as a solution to pollution and the energy crisis, emphasizing its safety and efficiency compared to fossil fuels.
• 🔍 Stone criticizes the lack of nuclear energy discussion in global forums, suggesting that renewables alone cannot meet the energy demands and that nuclear energy is a necessary component of the future energy mix.
• 🌍 He touches on the historical context of JFK's peace speech, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Cold War, and how it was an attempt to redefine relations with the Soviet Union and move away from a Cold War mentality.
• 📽️ Stone reflects on his experiences in Vietnam and his father's service in World War II, emphasizing the disconnect between those who experience war firsthand and those who make decisions to go to war without such experience.
• 🇺🇦 The discussion includes commentary on the current conflict in Ukraine, with Stone suggesting that the situation is complex and that historical context is crucial for understanding the dynamics between Russia and Ukraine.
• 🗣️ Stone calls for a reevaluation of American values and foreign policy, advocating for a more empathetic and cooperative approach to international relations, as exemplified by JFK's peace speech.
• 📖 He mentions his book 'Chasing the Light', sharing insights into his journey as a filmmaker and the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
• 💡 The interview concludes with Stone's endorsement of JFK's peace speech, encouraging viewers to watch it and reflecting on the speech's relevance to current global challenges.

Q & A

What is the significance of Kennedy's speech at American University in 1963 according to the interview?

The interviewee characterizes Kennedy's speech as extremely important and layered, emphasizing reconciliation with the Soviet Union, acknowledging the Soviet Union's contribution in World War II, and promoting mutual respect and understanding between nations.

How does the interviewee relate Kennedy's peace speech to current global affairs?

The interviewee suggests that Kennedy's vision of peace and cooperation is still relevant today, criticizing the current hostile stance of the United States towards countries like China and Russia, and advocating for a re-examination of American values and respect for the national interests of other sovereign nations.

What is the interviewee's view on the role of nuclear energy in the future?

The interviewee strongly supports nuclear energy as a solution to pollution and CO2 issues, arguing that it is a clean and efficient source of energy that has been unfairly sensationalized and misunderstood.

Why does the interviewee believe that the United States should not be involved in the Ukraine conflict?

The interviewee argues that the Ukraine conflict is far from American interests, and that the history between Ukraine and Russia is complex. He suggests that the U.S. should be focusing on partnering with countries like Russia on issues such as nuclear energy and combating pollution, rather than engaging in conflicts that could lead to a larger war.

What does the interviewee think about the current state of American politics and media?

The interviewee expresses concern over the partisanship and gridlock in American politics, and criticizes the media for what he perceives as a lack of truthful reporting, particularly regarding international affairs and the Ukraine conflict.

How does the interviewee describe his experience making 'Platoon' and what it aimed to portray?

The interviewee shares that 'Platoon' was intended to show the harsh and terrifying reality of war, contrasting with the public's perception at the time. He believes that his and his father's combat experiences provide a unique perspective that is often missing in discussions about war.

What is the interviewee's opinion on the current situation with Germany and its energy policies?

The interviewee criticizes Germany's decision to align with the U.S. on energy policies, particularly the abandonment of the Nord Stream pipeline and the reliance on more expensive alternatives like liquid natural gas from the U.S., which he sees as detrimental to Germany's economy and energy independence.

What does the interviewee suggest about the Kennedy assassination and the involvement of U.S. intelligence agencies?

The interviewee implies a deep suspicion of the official narrative of the Kennedy assassination, suggesting that figures within the CIA and potentially other U.S. intelligence agencies may have been involved, and that the truth has been covered up.

How does the interviewee view the role of Seymour Hersh in journalism?

While the interviewee respects Hersh's work in some areas, he expresses skepticism about Hersh's reporting on the Kennedy family, suggesting that Hersh's sources may be biased and that his portrayal of the Kennedys has been influenced by those with an agenda against them.

What advice does the interviewee give to young people trying to make a difference in the world?

The interviewee encourages young people to be persistent, to understand that rejection and failure are part of the process, and to continue striving for their goals despite the challenges. He shares his own experiences of struggling to find success and emphasizes the importance of resilience and perseverance.