A Surprising Success
Despite negative reviews from critics, the new movie “Reagan” has exceeded box office expectations, earning an estimated $10 million in its opening weekend. The film, starring Dennis Quaid as the 40th US president, has been well-received by audiences, with a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Reagan” (2024) – A Biographical Drama Film
Directed by Sean McNamara and written by Howard Klausner, “Reagan” is a biographical drama film based on Paul Kengor’s book “The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism”. The film stars Dennis Quaid as President Ronald Reagan, with Penelope Ann Miller, Robert Davi, Lesley-Anne Down, and Jon Voight in supporting roles.
Production and Release
Principal photography began on September 9, 2020, in locations like Guthrie, Oklahoma. The film was theatrically released in the United States on August 30, 2024.
Box Office and Reception
Despite receiving generally negative reviews from critics, “Reagan” has grossed $10 million over the Labor Day Weekend. The film’s success has been attributed to its captivating storytelling, impressive cast, and timely themes, which have resonated with audiences.
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The Cast
The movie boasts an impressive cast, including:
– Dennis Quaid as Ronald Reagan
– David Henrie as Young Adult Reagan
– Robert Davi as Leonid Brezhnev
– Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone
– Mena Suvari as Jane Wyman
– Jon Voight as Viktor Novikov
– Penelope Ann Miller as Nancy Reagan
– Lesley-Anne Down as Margaret Thatcher
Critical Reception
Despite the positive audience response, critics have been harsh on the film, with some calling it “the worst movie of the year” and “propaganda.” However, Quaid remains unfazed, saying, “A lot of that gets twisted because people have agendas.”
A Conversation Starter
The movie’s success has sparked a wider conversation about politics, history, and the legacy of Ronald Reagan. As Quaid noted, “Reagan was like everybody’s dad at the time that he was president… And, like all families, that’s either you admire your dad or you’re rebelling against your dad.”
The Impact of “Reagan”
The success of “Reagan” has significant implications for the film industry and beyond. It shows that movies about conservative figures can be successful, despite criticism from liberal critics. As Quaid noted, “The faithful for whom ‘Reagan’ was made aren’t likely to see that it’s a hagiography as rosy and shallow as anything in a Kremlin May Day parade.”
A New Perspective
“Reagan” offers a fresh perspective on the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan, one that is often overlooked in modern political discourse. By exploring his personal relationships and struggles, the film humanizes a figure often reduced to political ideology.
A Call to Action
The movie’s success is a call to action for filmmakers and audiences alike. It shows that there is a hunger for stories about conservative figures and ideas, and that these stories can be told in a way that is engaging and respectful.
The Future of Biopics
“Reagan” sets a new standard for biopics, one that prioritizes storytelling and character development over political ideology. As the film industry continues to evolve, it will be important to remember the lessons of “Reagan” and to strive for nuance and complexity in storytelling.
A Must-See
“Reagan” is a must-see for anyone interested in history, politics, or the human spirit. With its impressive cast, engaging storyline, and timely themes, it’s a movie that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
Additional Cast
– Marshall R. Teague as Eduard Shevardnadze
– Randy Wayne as Tony Dolan
– Chris Massoglia as Pat Boone
– Mark Kubr as Herb Sorrell
– Robert Peters as Agent Jerry Parr
– Paul T. Taylor as Dr. Benjamin Aaron
– Casey Graf as Fred Baird
– James Healy Jr. as Air Force General
Important Highlights :-
– Biographical drama film based on Paul Kengor’s book
– Stars Dennis Quaid as President Ronald Reagan
– Grossed $10 million over Labor Day Weekend
– Received generally negative reviews from critics
– Theatrically released in the United States on August 30, 2024