#1,028 - Sean McNamara on Reagan

Sean McNamara joins The Paul Leslie Hour to discuss his number one film Reagan.

In this episode of The Paul Leslie Hour, the illustrious director Sean McNamara discusses his latest film, "Reagan," a biopic that captures the life of the 40th president of the United States, featuring performances by Dennis Quaid and Penelope Ann Miller.

The conversation unfolds across continents, as McNamara shares his insights from California while Leslie conducts the interview from Bucharest, Romania. The film marks McNamara’s 40th project and intriguingly aligns with the theme of Ronald Reagan, the 40th president.

McNamara reflects on his motivation for making the film, which began when screenwriter Howie Klossner sent him the script. He was particularly drawn to the unique perspective of telling Reagan's story through the eyes of an ex-KGB agent, adding a compelling narrative angle that contrasts Reagan’s ideals with those from the Cold War adversaries.

This captivating approach, alongside McNamara’s personal connection to Reagan—having worked at Reagan's inauguration when he was just 18—fuels his passion for the project. He recounts his childhood experiences, hinting at the serendipitous journey that led him into the film industry, culminating in directing a film about a figure who had a profound impact on American history.

As the conversation progresses, McNamara dives deeper into the film's narrative framework, explaining that "Reagan" not only chronicles the political maneuvers of the president but also intertwines with his personal life and relationships, particularly with Nancy Reagan. This depth allows the film to explore themes of faith, resilience, and the human side of a political icon, illustrating Reagan’s early life, struggles, and eventual rise to political prominence through various roles including actor and governor.

Leslie prompts McNamara to elaborate on the casting of Dennis Quaid, who plays Ronald Reagan. McNamara praises Quaid's dedication to the role, noting how he immersed himself in the character by studying Reagan’s speeches and mannerisms. The director discusses the delicate balance required to portray such a well-known figure authentically, without veering into caricature. Penelope Ann Miller’s performance as Nancy Reagan is also highlighted, with McNamara noting her extensive research and commitment to accurately embodying Reagan’s wife, emphasizing that her influence was critical to his success.

The interview further showcases McNamara’s admiration for Jon Voight, who plays a significant role in the film as a KGB agent. Voight's approach to character development and his warm personality shine through in McNamara's anecdotes, providing a glimpse into the camaraderie that develops on set. McNamara reveals his working method, emphasizing the importance of pre-production rehearsals in creating a supportive environment for actors, which fosters creativity and confidence before filming begins.

Discussion turns to the film's unique soundtrack, which features diverse artists from various genres, including a never-before-heard Bob Dylan track and contributions from Gene Simmons of Kiss. McNamara explains how music plays a critical role in establishing the film's emotional tone and historical context, weaving familiar tunes throughout different periods of Reagan’s life to enhance viewer engagement.

The conversation also addresses the mixed critical reception that the film has received on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting McNamara's perspective on critics versus audience reactions. He expresses confidence in the film’s ability to resonate with viewers, recounting moving audience reactions during test screenings, and reiterating his aim to create movies that inspire and unite rather than divide.

In concluding thoughts, McNamara reflects on Reagan’s legacy, particularly appreciating his humor and interpersonal skills in navigating intense political scenarios. He emphasizes the importance of camaraderie in politics, urging a return to amicable discourse among differing ideologies as vital for future unity. As he wraps up the interview, he encourages listeners to watch "Reagan" in theaters, highlighting its cinematic beauty and the shared human experience it encapsulates.

The resulting discussion is not only a deep dive into the filmmaking process but also a commentary on history, politics, and the narratives that shape public perception of one of America’s most notable presidents.