Clint Eastwood once shared a simple but profound secret to success with me: “Find the best people, give them a mission, then get out of their way so they can do the job.” His words echoed the philosophy of another great leader, Ronald Reagan, who famously said, “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.” These words resonated deeply with me as I wrote the screenplay for the film ‘Reagan,’ a project that has become a journey of personal and professional growth.
As a young writer, I had initially dismissed Reagan as a ‘B-movie actor’ and a ‘has-been.’ However, my perspective shifted dramatically after 1981, when he was shot and the world held its breath. Witnessing the unity and compassion that transcended political divisions during that time made me realize the profound impact Reagan had on the nation. I began to study his speeches, essays, and books, discovering a man of exceptional intellect, wit, and unwavering love for his country.
The experience of writing ‘Reagan’ has been a deeply personal one. Working on the film has been a testament to the power of human connection, reminding me that even in a divided world, love and unity can prevail. We aimed to create a film that honors the life of a complex human being, acknowledging his flaws and successes. The film, much like Reagan himself, is about finding common ground and building bridges, not walls.
The film’s release coincides with a time when our country is deeply polarized. It’s a time when we need to remember the power of love, the importance of unity, and the spirit of togetherness that defines us as a nation. ‘Reagan’ is not just a film about a president; it’s a story about the power of human connection, the enduring legacy of a leader, and the hope for a better future. In a world where divisions seem to be deepening, it’s a reminder that unity and love are the forces that can truly move mountains. And perhaps, just maybe, a little bit of love can go a long way in healing a divided nation.
