The American President (1995), Director: Rob Reiner, rated PG-13

Why can't the most powerful man in the world have the one thing he wants most?

Starring: Michael Douglas, Annette Bening, Martin Sheen, David Paymer, Samantha Mathis, John Mahoney, Michael J. Fox, Anna Deavere Smith, Richard Dreyfuss

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ - good

"Mr. President, you got bigger problems than losing me. You just lost my vote." – Sydney Ellen Wade

Why watch this? This delightful romantic film takes us inside the blender that is love and politics.

Plot Summary: The recently widowed US President, Andrew Shepherd, a Democrat, is running for re-election. His campaign takes an unexpected turn when he begins a relationship with an environmental lobbyist, Sydney Ellen Wade. The film explores the challenges and complications of their blossoming romance amidst the political scrutiny and pressures of the White House and an election year.

Dad's Preview: Americans hold politicians to a high standard, especially the top position of the land. It really is unfair to ask that they not be human. Michael Douglas is a charming President, but Annette Bening captivates as a woman able to be both strong, beautiful, and most importantly honest. There are also great supporting performances by Martin Sheen and Michael J. Fox. I found this film very nostalgic, remembering a time when politics had decorum, and political news was fairly normal.

Castle Rock Ent., Wildwood Enterprises; Columbia Pictures