The 2024 biopic "Reagan" has lassoed a major win despite being sidelined by Hollywood’s latest bureaucratic hurdles.
The New York Post reported that this film, chronicling the life of President Ronald Reagan, snagged the Best Western Film–Drama award at the Will Rogers Medallion Awards while facing rejection from the Academy of Motion Pictures for not ticking the right diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) boxes.
Directed by Sean McNamara, "Reagan" traces the journey of a Midwestern farm boy who became a Hollywood star, a governor, and eventually the leader of the free world.
The stellar cast, featuring Dennis Quaid as Reagan himself, alongside Penelope Ann Miller, Jon Voight, Kevin Dillon, and Mena Suvari, brings this iconic story to life. It’s a tale of grit and determination, much like the American West itself.
The Will Rogers Medallion Awards, held in Claremore and Tulsa, Oklahoma—Will Rogers’ own stomping grounds—celebrate works that embody the heritage and values of the American frontier.
"Reagan" found a fitting home here, earning recognition for reflecting the rugged individualism and cultural resonance of the West. It’s a refreshing change from Hollywood’s often detached perspective.
Producer Mark Joseph didn’t hold back his gratitude, stating, "We are deeply honored by this recognition from the Will Rogers Medallion Awards." Well, Mark, it’s no surprise—when you tell a story of a man nicknamed "the Gipper" after his legendary role in the 1940 film "Knute Rockne, All-American," you’re bound to strike a chord with folks who value heart over hype.
Joseph added, "To be celebrated in this way is a meaningful affirmation of our cast, crew, and the enduring resonance of Reagan’s legacy in American culture and especially the West." Let’s be honest, though—while this praise is well-earned, it’s a shame the Academy couldn’t see past their checklist to appreciate a story that clearly connects with everyday Americans.
Speaking of connection, "Reagan" has moviegoers cheering louder than a crowd at a rodeo, boasting a staggering 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from audiences.
Yet, critics gave it a measly 18%, marking the largest gap in history between public and professional opinion on the site. It’s almost as if some reviewers forgot what storytelling is supposed to be about.
While Movieguide and the Dove Awards hailed "Reagan" as one of the best films of 2024, the Razzies and the Internet Film Criticism Society tossed it onto their worst-of lists. Talk about a divided house—apparently, a film about traditional values and personal triumph doesn’t sit well with everyone in the cultural elite.
This split isn’t just numbers on a screen; it reflects a deeper disconnect between regular folks and the gatekeepers of Tinseltown. Audiences see a tribute to a man who inspired with lines like "Win just one for the Gipper," while some critics seem more focused on what’s missing from their progressive playbook.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Academy’s decision to exclude "Reagan" from Best Picture contention over unmet DEI requirements.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow when a film loved by so many gets benched for not fitting a prescribed mold. Are we judging art on its merits anymore, or just on arbitrary quotas?
This isn’t about dismissing the importance of representation—far from it—but when a story as quintessentially American as Reagan’s gets sidelined, it raises questions about whether these rules are helping or hurting genuine creativity. The Academy might want to take a page from the Will Rogers Medallion Awards, which seem to prioritize substance over surface.
After all, "Reagan" isn’t just a movie; it’s a reminder of a leader who rose from humble roots to shape history. If that doesn’t deserve a fair shot at recognition, what does? Hollywood’s obsession with checking boxes risks alienating the very audiences they claim to serve.
Despite the snub, the win at the Will Rogers Medallion Awards stands as a testament to the film’s impact. It’s a nod to a narrative that celebrates perseverance, a quality Ronald Reagan embodied from his early days to his time in the Oval Office.
So, while the Oscars may have turned their backs, "Reagan" has found its champions among those who still value stories of hard work and legacy over trendy mandates. It’s a small victory, but a significant one, proving that not all awards are swayed by the latest cultural fads.
