President of the USA, Chief Executive, and widower, Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas) falls for a lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening), and then freefalls in the polls. Bustling staff members, a sneering opponent, state dinners, formal protocol, informal moments, global crises - all come into focus as the President explores the balance between private romance and public Presidency.
The American President fits into a category that seems to fly over the romantic comedy label and sweep under the intense political drama tag. In short it is a very well made mix of both with outstanding performances from the entire cast. Michael Douglas shined as the powerful and charming leader. He delivered the best performance in the film and suited his role extremely well. The charisma and subtle attractiveness he exuded was impeccable and I believe that this is one of his best to date. Annette Bening was above average, I didn't find her to completely match Douglas in terms of performance but she was decent and fitted into the shoes of the attractive, confident lobbyist(though I don't find her that pretty to be honest). Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, David Paymer, Anna Deavere Smith are all wonderful as the President's speedy staff, and Shawna Waldron plays a small but effective part as Lucy Shepherd, the President's daughter.
The American President is an engaging movie that will capture your attention till the very end, a very large part of that due to the dominant and impressive performance given by Michael Douglas.
The American President fits into a category that seems to fly over the romantic comedy label and sweep under the intense political drama tag. In short it is a very well made mix of both with outstanding performances from the entire cast. Michael Douglas shined as the powerful and charming leader. He delivered the best performance in the film and suited his role extremely well. The charisma and subtle attractiveness he exuded was impeccable and I believe that this is one of his best to date. Annette Bening was above average, I didn't find her to completely match Douglas in terms of performance but she was decent and fitted into the shoes of the attractive, confident lobbyist(though I don't find her that pretty to be honest). Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, David Paymer, Anna Deavere Smith are all wonderful as the President's speedy staff, and Shawna Waldron plays a small but effective part as Lucy Shepherd, the President's daughter.
The American President is an engaging movie that will capture your attention till the very end, a very large part of that due to the dominant and impressive performance given by Michael Douglas.