The biopic “Reagan” featuring Dennis Quaid as Ronald Reagan is set to return to theaters, coinciding with America’s 250th birthday celebration. As reported by Deadline, the film will have limited screenings on July 4 in multiple cities, followed by a broader reissue in September across 600 theaters. This re-release includes 10 minutes of new footage not shown in the original version.
The new scenes feature interactions between Reagan and his wife, Nancy, portrayed by Penelope Ann Miller, within the Oval Office. Other additional scenes include moments with Reagan’s father, Jack, and scenes at the Reagans’ ranch near Santa Barbara. In its initial run, “Reagan” grossed over $30 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.
Director Sean McNamara expressed satisfaction about including some of his favorite scenes back into the film, emphasizing the challenge of leaving notable moments out of the first cut.
“One of the hardest things about directing a feature film is leaving behind incredible moments on the cutting room floor,” McNamara noted. “I’m so happy to have some of my favorite scenes back in the film for audiences to experience them for the first time.”
Paul Kengor, an author whose works on Reagan informed the movie, highlighted a notable contrast in the reception of “Reagan.” The film received a 17% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, contrasting with a 98% score from audiences. Kengor compared this divide to Reagan’s 1980 presidential victory, where he accomplished a sweeping win over Democratic incumbent Jimmy Carter.
Critics from major publications offered negative reviews. A writer for The Boston Globe described it as “an interminable hagiography” and a dull piece of work. The Washington Post labeled it as “worthless” in terms of historical depiction, and the Daily Beast considered it the worst movie of the year.
Kengor compared the review disparity to Reagan’s landslide win in the 1984 election, where he secured 49 out of 50 states. He noted how liberal critics were in the minority regarding their views about Reagan.
Fox News’ Cortney O’Brien also contributed to this coverage.