Hey there, friends! If you're looking for a behind-the-scenes scoop on the new movie Reagan, you're in the right place. Closer Weekly had the chance to sit down with the legendary Dennis Quaid and director Sean McNamara to uncover the fascinating details of this incredible film, set to premiere on August 30th. Directed by McNamara and scripted by Howard Klausner and Jonas McCord, Reagan is inspired by Paul Kengor’s book, The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism. It brings the life and presidency of Ronald Reagan to life on the big screen, highlighting his journey from Hollywood star to one of America’s most influential leaders. Let me tell you, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for these guys!

A Journey Through Reagan's Extraordinary Life

This film dives deep into the life of Ronald Reagan, showcasing his rise from a humble Hollywood actor to the powerful President of the United States. It’s not just a story about a man; it’s a story about an era, a nation, and the man who helped shape it all. Now, let’s be honest, portraying such a monumental figure wasn’t exactly a walk in the park for either Quaid or McNamara. They both faced their fair share of challenges, but hey, isn’t that what makes a great story?

Dennis Quaid: The Man Behind the Mask

For Dennis Quaid, playing Ronald Reagan was more than just a role—it was a labor of love. “Reagan, without a doubt,” Quaid reflects, emphasizing that it was the toughest role he’s ever taken on. “When I play real people, I feel a deep responsibility to portray them authentically, from their perspective. I didn’t want to just mimic him; I wanted to embody him.”

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When asked what initially drew him to the role, Quaid didn’t hesitate for a second. “He was my favorite president. In terms of representing the 20th century, it’s Ronald Reagan all the way. He’s a giant of that era, and I felt truly honored to play him. It was a privilege to step into his shoes and tell his story.”

Sean McNamara: A Personal Connection

Director Sean McNamara brings a unique perspective to the project, one rooted in personal experience. “When I was younger, I had the amazing opportunity to work on the Reagan campaign as the sound guy. Who would’ve thought that years later, I’d have the chance to direct a film about President Reagan’s life? It was an incredible full-circle moment for me.”

McNamara also shares some lesser-known aspects of Reagan’s life that the film delves into. “We discovered that Reagan’s father struggled with alcoholism, which had a profound impact on Reagan’s character and the man he eventually became. He took those tough experiences from his past and turned them into a force for good in his life. It’s a side of Reagan that many people don’t know about, and it adds a whole new layer to his story.”

Unveiling the Real Reagan

Quaid also revealed some surprising facts about Reagan that might surprise even his biggest fans. “People often think Reagan was a wealthy man, but the truth is far from it,” Quaid explains. “The house he lived in was only about 1,100 square feet. Their king-size bed? It was actually two single beds zip-tied together. It was a simple life, and I think that’s something the public doesn’t fully grasp about him. There’s so much more to Reagan than what meets the eye.”

Filming Challenges in the Pandemic Era

Let’s not forget the challenges they faced while filming during the pandemic. “We were shooting in Oklahoma in 2020, right after the pandemic hit,” McNamara recalls. “We had strict protocols in place—nobody was allowed to leave the hotel or the set. Despite our best efforts, most of the crew ended up contracting COVID, which forced us to shut down production until everyone was cleared. It took a while to get back on track, but we persevered, and I’m proud of what we achieved.”

Looking Ahead: McNamara’s Next Project

While McNamara is thrilled with the finished product of Reagan, he’s already looking ahead to his next project, Bau: Artist at War, set for release in February 2025. But for now, his focus remains on bringing Reagan’s story to life in a way that resonates with audiences. “Playing him was a daunting task, but it was an incredible journey,” Quaid concludes. “I hope people walk away from this film with a deeper understanding of who Ronald Reagan truly was.”