The American President

Starring: Michael Douglas, Annette Bening, Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, Richard Dreyfuss, Samantha Mathis
Directed by: Rob Reiner
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama, Romance
Box Office: $60,079,496
1995

Times Seen:
Tim: 3

Summary:Popular widow President Andrew Shephard (Michael Douglas) is in an election year, and looking expectantly at the next election. He meets an environmental lobbyist (Annette Bening) who he falls for. The two begin to date, and the press has a field day with "the President's girlfriend." The media headache seems to worry everyone but Andrew, who will not listen to his advisors (Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox) or the harsh words of an election day competitor (Richard Dreyfuss). Ultimately, he may have to decide between losing his new love, and losing the election.

Review:

Tim: This has been one of my favorite movies since the first time I saw it. Ever notice how some films stay with you, and you can remember the first time you ever saw it? (for this film, it was the in-flight movie from Portland, Oregon to Chicago, Illinois). This is a remarkably memorable film.

The first thing to mention about The American President is the cast. Michael Douglas as the President of the United States? Brilliant. Martin Sheen as his Chief of Staff? Brilliant. Michael J. Fox as a staff person? Brilliant. Richard Dreyfuss as the opposing candidate? Brilliant. Annette Bening as the lobbyist? Well, still a good choice. She's excellent in this film. I never really liked her until I saw her in this film.

The storyline is excellent, and the writing is outstanding. The dialogue between characters is so crisp and so clever. Perhaps my favorite line- Michael J. Fox asks Michael Douglas who he is calling and he replies, "I'm calling the Organization of the United Brotherhood of It's None of your damn business, I'll be with you in a second." What a tremendous line. The dialogue and the characters together make this a truly great movie.

Finally, this movie reminds you of what this country is all about. It is in many ways a very patriotic movie. Watch for the final speech of Douglas', it makes me want to stand up and salute him (or vote for him in the next election). The American President is a touching, powerful film. And, if nothing else, it sure makes you wish Michael Douglas would run for President.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 8.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
Dave, The Game, The Grifters, American Beauty, Air Force One, The Contender