Review of the Biopic ‘Reagan’: A Quick Overview of the President’s Life

On August 29, 2024, a new biopic titled ‘Reagan‘ was released, focusing on the life of the 40th President of the United States. The film, directed by Sean McNamara and based on Paul Kengor’s book ‘The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism,’ presents a streamlined account of key moments in Reagan’s life.

Critics have noted that the film leans more toward hagiography than traditional historical narrative, akin to a cinematic version of CliffsNotes. This approach may appeal to Republican audiences who admire Reagan’s politics, while failing to attract new viewers unfamiliar with his legacy.

One notable aspect of the film is its depiction of Ronald Reagan’s Hollywood career, particularly his time as President of the Screen Actors Guild. However, it glosses over deeper historical contexts that could provide viewers with a more comprehensive understanding of Reagan’s significance.

The film features Dennis Quaid as Reagan, who reportedly captures both the charisma and determination of the President. Also starring Jon Voight as Viktor Petrovich, a fictional character modeled after a former KGB agent, the film employs narratives that aim to present insights into Reagan’s strategies during the Cold War.

Although it touches upon important events such as Reagan’s assassination attempt and his rise to political prominence, many critics feel that the film omits significant controversies of his administration, including the Iran-Contra affair and his response to the AIDS epidemic.

‘Reagan’ is portrayed as a love story at its core, particularly focusing on the relationship between Reagan and his wife, Nancy Davis. This emphasis, while showcasing personal dynamics, may detract from the more complex political and social issues of the time.