What makes both Douglas's president and the movie itself victorious classics is the combination of edge and enchantment.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Nov 6, 2020

When the focus is on romantic comedy, the film is breezy and amusing; but when it switches to dramas involving fundraising and campaigning, it grows stickier.

| Original Score: 6/10 | Sep 9, 2020

Despite lapses into sentimental corn-notably in scenes with the president's 12-year-old daughter-director Rob Reiner has crafted a whimsical fable that packs a deceptive punch.

| Oct 15, 2019

My favorite Sorkin film. Great script and wonderful chemistry between the leads

| Original Score: 8/10 | May 8, 2019

Filmmaker Rob Reiner has infused The American President with a breezy, compulsively watchable feel that's perpetuated and heightened by the stars' winning performances...

| Original Score: 3.5/4 | Dec 3, 2018

A genial and glossy middle-brow rom/com blended together with corny Capra-like political drama.

| Original Score: B- | Sep 27, 2015

Light, fluffy romantic comedy, well acted by Michael Douglas.

| Original Score: B- | May 4, 2011

Witty, wise, and idealized political romance.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Dec 18, 2010

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Mar 12, 2008

Part romantic comedy, part Capra-corny political drama, this movie exudes so much sympathy, it sweats.

| Jun 24, 2006

A potentially good adult romance is undone by a preachy left-wing agenda.

Full Review | Original Score: 2/5 | Oct 8, 2005

Sorkin starts his West Wing warm-up with a winning political rom-com.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Apr 3, 2005

Full Review | Original Score: 2/5 | Dec 26, 2004

Glorious romantic comedy.

| Original Score: 3.5/4 | Aug 7, 2004

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Jun 4, 2004

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | May 28, 2004

Predictable and PC, but fun.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Apr 3, 2004

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Oct 15, 2003

Good romantic comedy. Some funny irreverence about the White House, and a well-meaning political message.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Jul 14, 2003

With great looks, a dandy supporting cast, a zinger-filled screenplay by Aaron Sorkin and Mr. Douglas twinkling merrily in the Oval Office, The American President is sunny enough to make the real Presidency pale by comparison.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | May 20, 2003