“Reagan” Biopic Returns with New Scenes for America’s 250th Birthday

The biopic “Reagan,” starring Dennis Quaid as former President Ronald Reagan, will return to theaters with new scenes as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. According to Deadline, limited audience screenings are planned for July 4 in over a dozen cities, followed by a broader release in September in 600 theaters. This new version will include 10 extra minutes of footage not seen in the original film.

Deadline revealed additional scenes between Reagan and his wife Nancy in the Oval Office, a moment between Reagan and his alcoholic father Jack, as well as scenes at the Reagans’ ranch near Santa Barbara. During its initial release, the film managed to gross over $30 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.

“One of the hardest things about directing a feature film is leaving behind incredible moments on the cutting room floor. I’m so happy to have some of my favorite scenes back in the film for audiences to experience them for the first time,” said Director Sean McNamara on the extended cut.

The movie’s original release was notable for its parallels with Reagan’s own rise. Author Paul Kengor, who penned books on Reagan that served as the film’s foundation, noticed the contrast between the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes critics’ score (17%) and the audience score (98%). He equated this disparity to Reagan’s sweeping victory in the 1980 presidential election.

Reviews ranged from The Boston Globe’s description of it as an “interminable hagiography” to a Washington Post critic calling it “worthless” as a historical piece. The Daily Beast labeled it the worst movie of the year.

Kengor related the critics versus audience response to the 1984 election when Reagan secured 49 out of 50 states, explaining this was reflective of a similar divide. He remarked on how Reagan’s appeal was evident despite critics’ reviews, pointing out that his widespread appeal was undeniable.

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