Despite the huge wave of bad buzz surround this biopic, it actually was not half bad (the brief John Stamos cameo notwithstanding). James "Mr. Streisand" Brolin delivered a consistent performance, especially as Reagan toward the end of his presidency. The true star of this network mini-series come cable-pic is Judy Davis, who captures "Nancy Pants," as Ronnie refers to her in the film, with remarkable warmth and brief moments of manic intensity. The depiction of the Reagan children was humorous in a transparent, two-dimensional kinda way (like the Brady Bunch on acid).
The biographical tone and pacing of the film ran similar to Oliver Stone's Nixon. Unlike Nixon, who everyone suspected was a dirtbag, seeing the Reagans behind the curtains is rather fascinating. In the end, Reagan supporters have nothing to gripe about as the film's final consideration of Reagan is in the light of a truly well-meaning gentleman. Granted there is a certain sensitivity to various specific elements within the film, given Reagan's current health situation, but all the hype aside, it was genuinely interesting to watch. 7 out of 10.
The biographical tone and pacing of the film ran similar to Oliver Stone's Nixon. Unlike Nixon, who everyone suspected was a dirtbag, seeing the Reagans behind the curtains is rather fascinating. In the end, Reagan supporters have nothing to gripe about as the film's final consideration of Reagan is in the light of a truly well-meaning gentleman. Granted there is a certain sensitivity to various specific elements within the film, given Reagan's current health situation, but all the hype aside, it was genuinely interesting to watch. 7 out of 10.