The new Ronald Reagan biopic has defied expectations with a blockbuster debut over the weekend, despite facing heavy criticism from some liberal reviewers.
The film pulled in $7.4 million at the box office from Friday through Sunday, bringing its estimated total to $9.2 million when including projections for Labor Day Monday, according to the Christian Post.
It managed to secure the third spot at the box office for the holiday weekend, trailing behind “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Alien.”
Remarkably, it achieved a 98 percent approval rating from moviegoers on Rotten Tomatoes.
Critics vs. Audiences
This is in stark contrast to the film’s dismal 18 percent approval rating from critics, marking one of the largest gaps between critic and audience responses in Hollywood history.
Kevin Mitchell, president of Showbiz Direct, the company behind the film’s release on 2,750 screens, expressed excitement about the film’s success.
“We’re thrilled to be in the top five with our first film in such a competitive market,” Mitchell said.
He also anticipated that the film would continue to gain traction, especially in the South and Midwest.
Film’s Focus and Production Challenges
The biopic explores Reagan’s journey from his modest small-town beginnings to his rise as a Hollywood star and eventually the 40th President of the United States.
It highlights his resilience and the support of his wife, Nancy, and is narrated by a fictional former KGB agent whose life intersects with Reagan’s Hollywood years.
However, the film’s production faced several hurdles.
Originally scheduled for a 2023 release, its launch was delayed due to COVID-related lockdowns and the actors’ strike.
Additionally, Dennis Quaid, who portrays Reagan, mentioned there were attempts to “cancel” him during production.
He even claimed that Facebook censored online promotions, though the platform later attributed this to an automated error.
Critical Reactions
Upon its release, critics were quick to criticize the film’s portrayal of Reagan.
Nick Schager of the Daily Beast described it as “preachy” and “embarrassing propaganda,” while Boston Globe critic Odie Henderson found it to be overly sanitized and pandering to Evangelicals.
Robert Abele of the Los Angeles Times called Quaid’s performance a “hollow portrait” aimed at religious conservatives.
Audience Praise
Despite the critical backlash, many viewers were enthusiastic about the film.
One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer praised it as “very patriotic,” while another appreciated its exploration of Reagan’s significant life experiences.
A third viewer expressed admiration for Reagan’s convictions and courage.
Looking Ahead
Dennis Quaid believes the film’s success reflects Reagan’s enduring appeal across political divides.
“Having a dialogue is really what it’s about,” Quaid said.
He noted the need for more open conversations and understanding in today’s divisive climate.
DailyWire CEO Jeremy Boreing also weighed in, suggesting that the left often labels opposition as divisive.
He reminded people of Reagan’s unifying impact and encouraged optimism, despite current challenges.
What’s next for the film and its reception? Only time will tell how its success will influence future projects and discussions in the political and entertainment spheres.
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