A biopic about Ronald Reagan is in the works. The film, simply titled “Reagan,” will be based on two biographies about the former president written by Paul Kengor (“The Crusader” and “God and Ronald Reagan”) and will cover Reagan’s life, from boyhood to the presidency. It’s not clear what the film’s tone will be, but script writer Jonas McCord said this of Reagan, “I was of the opinion that at best he was a bad actor and at worst a clown.” I think that’s a decent indicator.
This is not the first time Hollywood has attempted to make a film about Reagan. In 2003, the CBS miniseries “The Reagans,” starring Josh Brolin as the patriarch, came under fire when portions of the script leaked and it was deemed unbalanced. The miniseries was not broadcast on CBS but on cable network Showtime.
The Hollywood Reporter has already compiled a list of possible young Reagans, including Zac Efron and James Franco. Over at Moviefone, Tom Hanks and Jon Hamm have been named as contenders for the older Reagan. But what about the first lady, Nancy Reagan (played by Judy Davis in the miniseries)? Here are some of my picks to play the petit, elegant and controversial woman who told kids to “Just Say No.”
Maggie Gyllenhaal
If the filmmakers are looking for an actress who could play both young and older Nancy, Maggie Gyllenhaal is a good choice. Although she plays a good down-home girl, think her Oscar-nominated role in “Crazy Heart,” she can do slightly snobby as well, like Rachel in “The Dark Knight.” As far as looks go, Reagan and Gyllenhaal have similar cheekbone structure.
Also suggested: Carrey Mulligan, Annette Bening and Meryl Streep.
