The Left attacks, since it is Reagan after all: Dennis Quaid’s portrayal of Reagan is a standout feature in the film, with many reviews praising his ability to capture Reagan’s mannerisms and charm. Some reviews noted that while Quaid’s performance is heartfelt and engaging, the film sometimes leans into a more sympathetic portrayal of Reagan, which may not appeal to all viewers FilmBook and Film Threat – so it’s the same old tale. The people love the movie and the Leftist critics detest it. Here is how most media is presenting it all.
The new biographical film “Reagan,” chronicling the life of former President Ronald Reagan, surpassed box office expectations during its opening weekend. Starring Dennis Quaid as the 40th President of the United States, the film grossed an estimated $10 million over the Labor Day weekend, from September 30 to August 2, according to Box Office Mojo. “Reagan” secured the third spot in the box office rankings, behind “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Alien: Romulus.”
‘Reagan’ Film CRUSHES Box Office Expectations, Scores ‘A’ From Viewershttps://t.co/JcJ78EQWca
— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) September 3, 2024
“Reagan” nearly doubled its initial projection of around $5 million, as reported by The Oklahoman. By Monday morning, the film’s earnings had reached $9.2 million, and it continued to climb. Despite its commercial success and a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film received harsh criticism from several left-leaning outlets.
The Daily Beast labeled “Reagan” as “the worst movie of the year.” Critic Nick Schager expressed his disdain for the film, describing it as a “MAGA-tinged hagiography” that fell far below expectations. Other critical reviews were published in The Washington Post, Variety, The Wrap, and The Hollywood Reporter, all of which criticized the film for its portrayal of Reagan.
Megyn Kelly Says Ignore Lefty Critics: Dennis Quaid’s ‘Reagan’ Shines, Beats Box Office Expectationshttps://t.co/uvqwFTJ5lM
— Twitchy Team (@TwitchyTeam) September 3, 2024
In his review for The Washington Post, Ty Burr criticized “Reagan” as “a hagiography as rosy and shallow as anything in a Kremlin May Day parade,” suggesting that the film served as “pop-culture propaganda” rather than a meaningful historical narrative. Similarly, The Wrap’s William Bibbiani described it as an “embarrassing presidential biopic” that glorified Quaid’s portrayal of Reagan as if he were “the second coming.”
Despite the backlash, Dennis Quaid remained unfazed by the potential controversy surrounding his portrayal of Reagan. Speaking to Fox News Digital, Quaid emphasized that “Reagan” is a biopic, not a political statement. “It’s a love story. It’s about all of us as America, where we used to be,” Quaid said, addressing concerns about the film’s reception. He dismissed the idea that his role could lead to him being “canceled,” noting that he had faced similar criticisms in the past but remained undeterred.
“Reagan,” starring Dennis Quaid was the only new release competitive with holdover films.
Exceeding projections. . . it earned $7.4 million over the 3-day weekend. . .expected to rise to $9.2 million by Monday.
Audiences gave it a score of 98% on Rotten Tomatoes.
(But critics… pic.twitter.com/zcwhBobWJK— wyntre (@Wyntre999) September 1, 2024
Quaid defended Reagan’s legacy, acknowledging the divisive nature of the former president’s politics but arguing that the film itself is not politically motivated. He highlighted Reagan’s achievements, such as ending the Cold War and fostering peace with the Soviet Union, while also addressing the criticisms Reagan faced during his presidency. “Reagan was like everybody’s dad at the time that he was president,” Quaid reflected, comparing the mixed feelings toward Reagan to those experienced within a family dynamic.
Directed by Sean McNamara and produced by Mark Joseph, “Reagan” also features Penelope Ann Miller and Jon Voight in supporting roles. Despite the polarized response from critics, the film’s strong box office performance suggests a substantial interest in Reagan’s story, particularly among those who view the former president favorably.
Key Points:
i. The film “Reagan,” starring Dennis Quaid, exceeded box office expectations with an estimated $10 million opening weekend.
ii. Despite a strong audience score, the film received harsh criticism from left-leaning critics for its portrayal of Ronald Reagan.
iii. Dennis Quaid defended the film as a non-political biopic, emphasizing Reagan’s achievements and dismissing fears of being “canceled.”
iv. Critics labeled the film as overly flattering and lacking in historical depth, calling it a piece of “pop-culture propaganda.”
v. “Reagan” continues to draw interest, indicating a significant audience for films about historical political figures.
Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
