Why ‘The American President’ Deserves a Second Look

Rob Reiner’s legacy in film stretches across genres, with a knack for turning out classics in everything from comedy to horror. Yet, among his many hits, there’s one that often flies under the radar: ‘The American President’. While Reiner’s name is usually linked to big titles like ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ or ‘Misery’, this 1995 political romance, penned by Aaron Sorkin, stands out for its honest look at the personal side of politics.

Reiner, known for his activism and strong opinions, brought a genuine sense of empathy to the story. The film follows Andrew Shepherd, played by Michael Douglas, a widowed U.S. president who finds himself in the awkward position of dating again while still in office. After years of playing more hard-edged roles, Douglas shifts gears here, giving Shepherd a quiet charm and vulnerability. The president’s budding relationship with Sydney Ellen Wade, a passionate lobbyist played by Annette Bening, throws his personal and professional life into chaos.

Politics and Humanity Collide

What sets this film apart is its refusal to treat the premise as a punchline. Reiner and Sorkin dig into the reality of what it means to be a leader under constant scrutiny, balancing the demands of the job with the need for genuine human connection. The film’s humour is subtle, poking fun at the oddities of presidential life—like having security detail on every date—without ever taking the mickey out of its characters.

Shepherd’s struggle isn’t just about romance; it’s about navigating the murky waters of compromise. He’s caught between his own beliefs and the political realities of working with Congress. This tension comes to a head in a heated exchange with Lewis Rothschild, his domestic policy advisor, played by Michael J Fox. Rothschild challenges Shepherd’s commitment to issues like gun control, forcing the president to reckon with the limits of his power and the ethics of political deal-making.

Setting the Stage for Modern Political Drama

‘The American President’ laid the groundwork for the kind of fast-paced, dialogue-driven political stories that Sorkin would later perfect in ‘The West Wing’. But unlike the TV series, the film doesn’t lecture its audience. Instead, it acknowledges the imperfections of American politics and the people who try to steer it. Shepherd isn’t portrayed as a flawless hero; he’s just a bloke doing his best in a tough spot.

Reiner’s direction keeps things grounded, never letting the story drift into melodrama. The film recognises that leaders are, at the end of the day, just people—capable of love, mistakes, and growth. It’s this focus on humanity that gives the story its staying power, even as real-world politics grow more cynical.

A Timeless Take on Leadership

When news broke of Reiner’s passing, there was plenty of talk about his impact on cinema and his outspoken political stance. Some public figures even took the opportunity to criticise him, but ‘The American President’ stands as a quiet rebuttal. It offers a vision of leadership rooted in empathy and decency, qualities that feel increasingly rare.

For those who reckon they’ve seen all of Reiner’s best work, this film is worth another look. It’s a reminder that even in the highest office, it’s the small, human moments that matter most.