Reagan: A Biopic That's More Like a Campaign Ad?
You want to watch "Reagan"? Let's see if this movie about the 40th U.S. President is worth your time. Is it a gripping historical film or just a polished tribute? History lovers and moviegoers, we will dissect this biopic. It’s based on a true story, or at least, a certain take on it.
The Reagan Movie: A Quick Overview
Directed by Sean McNamara, "Reagan" premiered in 2024. The film aims to show us Ronald Reagan's life. Howard Klausner wrote the script, inspired by Paul Kengor's book "The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism." The film labels itself as an "excellent biopic." Kengor's book, published in 2006, laid the groundwork for McNamara's movie. But does it really deserve the title of "excellent"? That’s the big question. The budget was $25 million.
Box Office Reality Check: Did "Reagan" Make Bank?
Now, let’s talk money. "Reagan" earned $30.1 million worldwide. Its budget was $25 million, so it crossed the break-even line. Financially, it wasn’t a flop, but not a blockbuster either. It met its financial obligations and exited quietly. It earned enough to cover costs but did not set the box office on fire. It’s a moderate success, like getting a B+ on a test—respectable, but no big deal.
Critical Tumbleweeds: What Did the Critics Say?
The juicy part: what did critics think? Hold on; it’s not great news. Rotten Tomatoes, the movie review aggregator, wasn’t kind to "Reagan." The overall critical sentiment can be summed up as lukewarm or downright chilly. One review from freepressokc.com called it "a whitewashed, incoherent mess." That's harsh. Ouch!
Critics say the film admires Reagan but sanitizes history so much that it turns him into a caricature. Rotten Tomatoes states it "flattens the 40th U.S. President into caricature." Metacritic gave it a score of 22 out of 100 based on 20 critiques, indicating "generally unfavorable reviews." That’s not just bad; that’s needing a presidential pardon from cinematic sins.
One critic noted the film is "incapable of imagining what its protagonist was like in private moments." Essentially, it's like they're making a movie about a cardboard Reagan rather than a complex person. Another review called it "an insubstantive Greatest Hits compendium LP." Thus, less a nuanced biopic and more a highlight reel of Reagan's perceived triumphs, avoiding any shadows.
However, not everything is doom and gloom. One audience reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes rated it an 8/10. They found the story unique and intriguing, told from a "former top Russian KGB agent's perspective." This viewer lived through the Reagan years and recommended it to history lovers. It seems this film might resonate with those who have a fondness for Reagan or that narrative.
The Star Power: Dennis Quaid as Reagan
Who's playing Reagan? Dennis Quaid takes on the role of Ronald Reagan. The poster likely features Quaid prominently, trying to convey Reagan's charm. David Henrie co-stars as the younger version of the Gipper. Dennis Quaid has discussed his experience in interviews about filming "Reagan." He found filming fun, even if critics were not supportive of the final product.
"That Printer of Udell's": The Book That Shaped a President?
Interestingly, a book shaped Ronald Reagan's worldview. This book is "That Printer of Udell's" by Harold Bell Wright, published in 1902. In the film, Reagan's mother gifts him this book at age 11. Both in the film and Reagan's accounts, this book had a "lasting impact" on his life, shaping his "moral sense."
Reagan claimed it inspired his evangelical Christian faith. He was baptized in his mother's church, the Protestant Disciples of Christ Church. The movie emphasizes this book throughout Reagan's political career. Young Ron receives it from his mom and her preacher in the film—a narrative device connecting a turn-of-the-century novel to a 20th-century president. Whether this is entirely accurate or myth-making is open to interpretation.
Oklahoma: The Unlikely Backdrop for Reagan's Life
Here’s an unexpected fact: this biopic about a Californian president was filmed almost entirely in Oklahoma. Yes, Oklahoma! You "wouldn't know any of that" from the film, reports indicate. Why Oklahoma? During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was one of the few places where productions proceeded smoothly. While Reagan is tied to California, his cinematic portrayal started in Oklahoma. Practicality took priority over authenticity in biopics.
Money Matters: Who Bankrolled "Reagan"?
Films require financial backing. "Reagan" got funds from TriStar Global Entertainment, based in Canada and Los Angeles. The financing announcement had some fanfare, highlighting backing for this project to bring Reagan’s story to screens. It's interesting to know who funds movies, often hinting at intended audiences and messages.
Reagan in Context: Beyond the Silver Screen
To grasp "Reagan," you need to understand Reagan the man and the era he occupied. Why did he gain popularity? Reagan rose to fame as many Americans grew disillusioned with New Deal liberalism. He and conservatives presented their ideas as viable alternatives. Reagan's charisma and exceptional speaking skills framed conservatism as an optimistic vision. He sold policies and also hope and a return to traditional values.
Religion played its role too. Often linked with evangelical Christianity, Ronald Reagan was actually Presbyterian. If you track presidential denominations, Jimmy Carter was Southern Baptist while Reagan was Presbyterian. These religious affiliations subtly shape a president's worldview and public persona.
Age-wise, Reagan was one of the oldest presidents at 69 years when he took office on January 20, 1981. That’s nearly 70! He defied ageist stereotypes and showed you can start a demanding job like the presidency in your later years.
And then there are the nicknames. "Dutch" was a childhood name from his father commenting on his resemblance to a "fat little Dutchman." It was reinforced by his youthful haircut. "The Gipper" came from his role as George "The Gipper" Gipp in "Knute Rockne, All American." Nicknames reveal public perception and personal branding—Reagan had some intriguing ones.
memorable ones.
Ronald Reagan passed away from pneumonia at 93. He died in his home in Bel-Air, Los Angeles. His wife, Nancy, called his passing "the greatest gift you could have given me." This statement captures a deep emotion. He is buried at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.
The Reagan era features significant tax cuts. In 1981, he lowered the maximum tax rate drastically. It went from 70% to 50%. Further cuts in 1986 reduced it to 28%. These policies, dubbed Reaganomics, remain debated. They left a big mark on the American economy.
Reagan's first marriage was to Jane Wyman, his co-star in "Brother Rat." They wed in 1940 and welcomed two daughters, Maureen and Christine. Tragically, Christine died shortly after a premature birth. Jane passed away in 2007 due to arthritis and diabetes complications. Presidents have lives filled with joy and sorrow.
Abraham Lincoln often stands as the "greatest president" in American history. His leadership during the Civil War and his role in ending slavery is notable. Every president faces comparison to past giants. Lincoln’s legacy looms large.
In a modern twist, Elon Musk calls himself a "cultural Christian." This reflects how diverse public figures engage with religion today. It contrasts with the clear religious affiliations of past presidents.
Is "Reagan" worth seeing? If you love Reagan and want a celebratory view, you may enjoy it. But if you seek a nuanced biopic addressing complex issues, lower your expectations. Consider the Rotten Tomatoes reviews before deciding. This is not an exposé; it resembles a campaign ad.
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