Welcome to ESTA’S ECLECTIC CLASSIC CORNER. These are movies that have stood the test of time throughout past decades and made a difference in my life. Films that I could watch over and over and still love them as much as the first viewing. They are like “comfort food” for me. Each week I will be reviewing a classic that I have loved and can’t wait to share my thoughts with you. Please note, there will be some spoilers in these reviews. I will have to share some of my favorite scenes and dialogue to back up my personal reflections. I am who l am because of theatre and movies.
I have been in love with the film THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT since it was first released in 1995. It came into our lives when we all needed a “lift” from shady politicians and nosey, pushy press. The moment THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT began with its montage of photos and sculptures of former presidents with the lilting score, composed by Marc Shaiman, my heart soared. I was whisked away to all the infinite possibilities the American people could be. Our symbols of freedom and democracy instantaneously inspired me. I remember when I was just 22 and lived in Jerusalem for a year by myself. I learned many valuable lessons and grew up quickly. I sometimes felt lonely for my family, friends, and country. I missed my country and will always cherish the pride and love I feel for America. I came home wanting to do better…be better…help more people…and make a difference in someone’s life. I am an optimist who believes anyone can find love and happiness anywhere, anytime, even at the White House. I am a sucker for a rom/com. THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT checked every box. I have watched and quoted lines dozens of times. It is what our world could be if only Aaron Sorkin were writing the script.
Rob Reiner directed this masterpiece. He was allowed to visit the White House five times during the Clinton years to get the sets right. In addition, Rob was permitted to shadow President Clinton for two days to ensure the non-stop pacing behind the scenes. It worked. It made the viewers feel like they were racing down hallways with only minutes to spare.
The story is about the everyday life of a president during an election year. The hook is that President Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas) is a widower. By chance, he walks into a meeting with his Chief of Staff, A.J. (Martin Sheen), and members of an environmental group, which includes the liberalist Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening.) She is very vocal and expresses her thoughts, not knowing who is standing behind her. Oh, we have first eye contact. It is evident sparks fly. The President is intrigued. He calls Sidney later to invite her to a State Dinner honoring the French President and his wife. It’s a pretty “ordinary first date,” especially when two hundred eyes are glued to Michael and Annette as they waltz around the magnificent ballroom, filled with elegantly gowned, D.C. influential people. No one can look away. (It must be due to the President’s three Arthur. Murray dance lessons.) We advance to more dates set among the scrutiny of the press and Secret Service in the “dish room,” intimate dinners, and a weekend at Camp David. We witness the Virginia ham, the first kiss, the first sleepover, and the morning after with the entire staff trying to solve the “Sydney dilemma. (“Will you ever be able to see me as just Andy and not the President?) She obviously did.
The conflict of their coupling is the different sides they are on trying to send Bill 455 to the Congressional floor. It is also entwined with Senator Bob Rumson (Richard Dreyfuss), who is running against Andy for re-election. Bob questions the President’s morals and ethics. How dare he fall in love? How can the leader of our country have a personal life and be our Commander-in-Chief at the same time? Ah, love conquers all, even Senator Rumson, because “Bob, your fifteen minutes of fame are up, and I am the President.”
What makes this movie work so well is the acting chops of the entire ensemble. They make us believe what it must be like to agree or disagree with the President. They take us into the “Sit Room,” where life and death are decided daily. The actors help us to understand that sometimes it is the “most unpresidential thing that has to be done and is the hardest.” I particularly enjoyed watching Lewis (Michael J. Fox) before the ravages of Parkinson’s took over his body. His thoughts became the sounding board and catalyst for Andy’s final choices. Nobody wants to “eat the sand” when starving for leadership.
I must mention the amazing chemistry between Annette and Michael. Her smile is radiant. She reacts with thoughtfulness and clear intention. She made me giggle and remember those “first love” seconds. Michael played our leader calmly and patiently. His demeanor was so “presidential,” yet he was not perfect. His character had depth, and he was not afraid to show grief and anger when necessary. I ached for all that was on his shoulders. Together, they were spectacular.
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT was witty, powerful, clever, creative, and majestic. It made the audience feel respect for the White House and all the intricate details that are a part of their daily routine. It was “Capraesque.” The love story blended into its surroundings brilliantly. It gave you room to breathe but left you breathless at the same time.
When I rewatched THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT, I thought about the temperature of our current elections this week. I would love to live in a world with men like Andrew Shepherd. Politicians who get excited about hearing the words “We the people…” and Fathers who are excited to discuss civics with their children, including all its messy moments. We have “big problems to solve.” This classic film gave me hope for America’s future. If we can create movies like this, then we have the power to make our world better and kinder.
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT is available to stream on HBO Max.
