2024 Biopic “Reagan” Honored at Will Rogers Medallion Awards
The biopic “Reagan,” released in 2024, secured the Best Western Drama award at the Will Rogers Medallion Awards. This recognition comes after it was overlooked for the Oscars’ Best Picture due to DEI requirements.
Mark Joseph, the film’s producer and prominently featuring Dennis Quaid as President Ronald Reagan, expressed gratitude for the award. “We are extremely honored by this recognition from the Will Rogers Medallion Award,” he mentioned.
He added, “To be celebrated in this way is a meaningful affirmation of the cast, crew, and the enduring resonance of President Reagan’s legacy in American culture, especially in the Western world.”
The Will Rogers Medallion Award celebrates contributions in film, literature, and songwriting, emphasizing the values of the American West, which were embodied by entertainer Will Rogers.
The ceremony took place in Claremore, Oklahoma, and nearby Tulsa, both significant to Rogers’ legacy.
Although “Reagan” was well-received among audiences, it did not qualify for the Academy’s Oscar considerations due to failing to meet the DEI criteria. This odd disconnect in reception is notable.
The film was highlighted by Movie Guide and the Dove Awards as among the best of 2024, yet paradoxically, it was also nominated as one of the worst by the Razzie Awards and the Internet Film Critics Association.
Critically, “Reagan” displayed a remarkable disparity in ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, where it earned an impressive 98 from moviegoers, while critics rated it significantly lower at just 18.
Directed by Sean McNamara and featuring a cast that includes Penelope Ann Miller, Jon Voight, Kevin Dillon, and Mena Suvari, the film chronicles Reagan’s journey from a Midwestern farm to becoming a Hollywood actor, governor, and ultimately, the 40th U.S. president.
Interestingly, the title “The Zipper” refers to Reagan’s noteworthy role as football player George Gipp in the classic 1940 film “Knute Rockne, All American.” From his hospital bed, Gipp famously urged his coach to inspire the team by saying, “just get one win for the Gipper.”
