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Bill O'Reilly's 'Killing Lincoln' will be made into a documentary by Ridley and Tony Scott

Ridley and Tony Scott will be filming a National Georgraphic documentary based on Bill O'Reilly's book 'Killing Lincoln.'

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Monty Brinton/HO/CBS/AP
Director Ridley Scott will team with his brother Tony to create a documentary based on political commentator Bill O'Reilly's book 'Killing Lincoln.'
  • By Molly Driscoll

Filmmakers Tony and Ridley Scott will be creating a documentary about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln based on “Killing Lincoln,” the book by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard which was released this fall.

The book, which has stirred controversy for what critics say are its factual errors, will be the source material for the two-hour film, according to National Geographic President Howard T. Owens. Tony and Ridley Scott were the creative force behind “Gettysburg,” a History Channel film that aired last May.

O’Reilly will be the executive producer of the new film.

“National Geographic has a great legacy of telling some of history’s most riveting stories,” said the political commentator in a statement. “The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln is no exception, as it continues to be one of the most significant, life-changing events in America’s young history. Ridley and Tony Scott are incredible directors, producers and amazing storytellers with the ability to bring this story to life in a way no one else can.”

Ridley Scott said in a statement that National Geographic is the best choice to bring the film to television.

“We are excited to share with audiences this epic and thrilling story surrounding Lincoln's assassination, one of the most notorious crimes in American history,” he said.

Parts of the film will include reenactments of key events using CGI as well as information from what National Geographic said are rarely seen archives of historical data.

“Killing Lincoln” will premiere early next year, with production beginning during this spring.

Molly Driscoll is a Monitor contributor.

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