Dennis Quaid to Portray Ronald Reagan in Upcoming Biopic "Reagan"

Actor Dennis Quaid will portray the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, in an upcoming biographical film called "Reagan," directed by Sean McNamara. The movie is based on Paul Kengor's book "The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism." The star-studded cast includes Penelope Ann Miller as Nancy Reagan, Mena Suvari as Jane Wyman, and Jon Voight as Viktor Petrovich, a KGB agent. Principal photography for the film began on September 9, 2020, and it is set to release in theaters on August 30, 2024.

Initially, Quaid was hesitant to accept the role, given Reagan's status as his favorite president and the challenging prospect of portraying him. However, he eventually accepted the role, citing it as a significant personal challenge and an interesting opportunity in his career. McNamara chose Quaid for the role due to his likeness, physical abilities, and optimistic spirit that distinguished his portrayal.

The film depicts Reagan's journey from his childhood in Dixon, Ill., to his leadership in Hollywood, culminating in his presidency and global influence during the Cold War. "Reagan" also explores the historical impact of Reagan's administration and its significance in international relations, particularly his role in ending the Cold War.

"Reagan" aims to offer a balanced portrayal of the 40th U.S. President's legacy without being partisan and focuses on the human elements of Reagan's character. Director Sean McNamara emphasizes nuanced storytelling throughout the film, with a narrative depth unbound by typical political or ideological dichotomies.

In line with a growing trend, Quaid's portrayal of Reagan at various stages of his life uses cutting-edge technology to age and de-age the actor. The film's visual effects supervisor, Scott Coulter, employed physical makeup and digital technology to achieve these shifts, showcasing such craftsmanship in over 300 shots.

With Quaid's commitment to portraying Reagan with authenticity and respect, coupled with extensive research and historical accuracy, "Reagan" is a highly anticipated biopic that is expected to offer a compelling and insightful portrayal of the life and legacy of the 40th U.S. President. As the release date approaches, this film is poised to captivate audiences and provide a unique perspective on one of the most iconic figures in American history.