The American President

The American President

Year: 1995

Runtime: 114 min

Language: English

DramaComedyRomance

As re-election looms, widowed U.S. President Andrew Shepherd must confront the consequences of falling for lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade, putting his presidency at risk. Public scrutiny threatens to derail their romance, while a cunning rival candidate seizes opportunity to strike, forcing Shepherd to weigh his political legacy against the love that has awakened his heart.

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Timeline & Setting – The American President (1995)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The American President (1995). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in contemporary America, capturing the political landscape of the mid-1990s. This period witnessed significant political maneuverings and shifting public opinions, particularly around environmental legislation and crime control, both central themes in President Shepherd's administration.

Location

Washington D.C., Hartford, Connecticut

Washington D.C. serves as the political epicenter of the United States, known for its iconic monuments and the White House, where President Andrew Shepherd conducts his administration's affairs. Hartford, Connecticut, is recognized as a hub for financial services and insurance, reflecting a more personal significance in the story as a potential new beginning for Sydney Ellen Wade.

🏛️ Capital 🌍 Environment

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:39

Main Characters – The American President (1995)
Meet the key characters of The American President (1995), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Andrew Shepherd (Martin Sheen)

President Andrew Shepherd is a charismatic and politically savvy leader, grappling with the loneliness of his position as a widower. His dedication to public service is evident, but his emotional journey reveals vulnerabilities, especially in matters of the heart and political ethics.

💼 President ❤️ Leader 🏛️ Politician

Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening)

Sydney Ellen Wade is a passionate and determined environmental lawyer whose advocacy challenges the status quo. Her character embodies strength and tenacity, as she navigates the complexities of political alliances while forming a personal connection with President Shepherd.

🌍 Activist ❤️ Lawyer 💔 Love Interest

A. J. MacInerney (Michael Douglas)

A. J. MacInerney serves as Shepherd's Chief of Staff and a loyal friend, often acting as the voice of reason. His pragmatic approach to politics contrasts with Shepherd's idealism, and he wrestles with the consequences of their political decisions.

👔 Chief of Staff 🤝 Ally 🤔 Strategist

Senator Bob Rumson (Michael J. Fox)

Senator Bob Rumson emerges as a formidable political opponent, using harsh criticism to undermine Shepherd's credibility. His character represents the harsh realities of political opposition and the lengths politicians will go to sway public opinion.

🎭 Opponent 🗳️ Politician 🎙️ Critic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:39

Major Themes – The American President (1995)
Explore the central themes of The American President (1995), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love & Politics

The intertwining of romance and political ambition showcases the complexities of personal relationships within the demanding sphere of public service. As Shepherd navigates his feelings for Wade amidst the pressures of re-election and political debates, the theme highlights the sacrifices and compromises made in the name of love and duty.

⚖️ Ethics & Integrity

The film delves into the themes of ethics and integrity, especially as Shepherd faces scrutiny from political rivals. The conflict between personal values and political pressure raises questions about the moral compromises leaders must confront to succeed in their agendas.

♻️ Environmental Advocacy

Through Sydney Wade's character, the film emphasizes the importance of environmental legislation and advocacy. The tension between economic priorities and environmental responsibility reflects broader societal issues regarding climate change and the political will to address such challenges.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:39

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