The re-release of the “Reagan” movie features a notable scene from President Ronald Reagan, once omitted from the original film. In this reenactment, Dennis Quaid portrays Reagan delivering a speech at the Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO, where he remarks, “You and your forebearers helped build this nation. Now help us rebuild it. And together, we will make America great again.”
This speech is historically significant as Reagan first coined the “Make America Great Again” slogan during his 1980 campaign. The phrase gained renewed attention when President Donald Trump adopted it in his presidential runs from 2016 to 2024. Director Sean McNamara shared that the initial film release omitted this segment due to its potential political implications during a tense election period. However, with the movie’s special re-release coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary, the line was restored.
The special edition boasting 10 minutes of unseen footage will be showcased in theaters starting September 25. Special screenings are slated for July 4 in various cities, followed by a broader release in September, spanning 600 theaters. Added scenes include personal insights with Reagan’s wife Nancy, interactions with his father Jack, and idyllic moments at the Reagans’ ranch, Rancho del Cielo near Santa Barbara.
Fox Nation’s “Making Reagan” documentary further delves into the creation of the 2024 biopic, offering behind-the-scenes footage and interviews. Despite mixed reviews, the film achieved a high audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.