Screenwriter of ‘Reagan’ Claims Oscars Excluded Film Due to DEI Criteria

Screenwriter of ‘Reagan’ Claims Oscars Excluded Film Due to DEI Criteria

The biographical film ‘Reagan,’ featuring Dennis Quaid as the iconic President Ronald Reagan, fell short of Oscar nominations due to its failure to meet the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) standards, as revealed by the film’s screenwriter, Howard Klausner.

Klausner’s Reflections on Hollywood’s Shift

Klausner addressed the implications of the Academy’s criteria in an email to Fox News Digital, expressing a sense of sorrow rather than anger. He stated, “There’s not really anger and indignation among those of us who made this film; we didn’t seriously expect to be nominated for anything by Hollywood in this cultural climate—it’s just sadness, really.”

The Decline of the Dream Factory

In his statement, Klausner lamented the changes in Hollywood, once revered as the ‘Dream Factory’ that resonated with diverse audiences, including the heartland of America. He conveyed, “What has become of the magnificent Dream Factory that once was Hollywood?” He poignantly reflected on how filmmaking used to capture the essence of the broader American experience, appealing to both mainstream and cultural elite audiences alike.

Misplaced Priorities?

Klausner previously articulated concerns in an interview with the New York Post, suggesting that the adherence to new DEI guidelines could prevent many previously celebrated films from ever being recognized today. “By these new rules, many previous winners would never have been recognized,” he emphasized.

A Challenging Year for Films

This year, the Academy disqualified ‘Reagan’ along with 116 other films from Oscar consideration. Klausner remarked, “Obviously, there needs to be a conversation about this policy.” The Academy instituted these DEI requirements for the 96th annual ceremony, mandating that films vying for Best Picture meet at least two of four specified criteria focused on representation. This includes underrepresented groups such as women, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

Criteria for Oscar Eligibility

The updated criteria require films to demonstrate diversity through various aspects, including casting choices, creative leadership roles, and representation in marketing and distribution. This shift underscores a growing focus on inclusivity in the film industry.

Differences in Audience and Critical Reception

The film’s producer, Mark Joseph, indicated his intention to apply for a Guinness World Record based on the striking disparity between audience approval and critical reviews. ‘Reagan’ boasts an impressive 98% approval rating from audiences compared to a mere 18% from critics, showcasing a notable division in response to the film.

The Cultural Divide in Filmmaking

Klausner critiques the current landscape of filmmaking, suggesting it has become a contributor to cultural divisions rather than a unifying force. He reflected, “Movies seriously used to bring us all together. Now they seem to be a big part of the continuing cultural divide.” He did not want to cast blame on individuals or groups but expressed a shared sentiment with beliefs voiced by a highly placed studio executive: “Now we primarily make movies for 10% of the population.”

A Return to Heartland Films

He then emphasized his preference for the 90% of viewers whom he feels are overlooked. Klausner disclosed that he departed from Hollywood a few years ago to create ‘heartland films’ that resonate with broader American values and aspirations. He expressed hope that the industry could return to a model that values diverse stories reflective of the nation’s cultural fabric.

Challenges with Social Media Promotion

Issues surrounding the promotion of ‘Reagan’ extended beyond traditional media outlets. Last year, Quaid and the film’s marketing team accused Facebook of censorship, alleging that the platform disallowed paid promotions featuring Quaid’s image due to the film’s political themes. Furthermore, the film’s official social media account faced multiple suspensions over content related to Quaid’s media appearances.

Facebook’s Automated Response

Quaid explained that the platform labeled promotional content as sensitive, which could potentially influence public opinion and political outcomes. This automated response raised questions about the platform’s oversight and criteria for content moderation.

Insights from Meta

A spokesperson from Meta acknowledged the incident, explaining that automated systems incorrectly flagged certain ads that were about President Reagan. They assured that the restrictions had been lifted following the recognition of the error.

Reflections on Censorship in Filmmaking

Klaus also highlighted the troubling trend where decisions are made without firsthand knowledge of the materials. Quaid criticized the lack of thorough review by platforms before enacting censorship, stating, “The one thing I would say was Facebook, before they did censor materials relating to it, is that they did it without even seeing it.”

Reimagining Hollywood’s Future

The conversation surrounding ‘Reagan’ has sparked broader discussions about the film industry’s direction and its ability to cater to varied audiences while upholding inclusive values. As filmmakers navigate this changing landscape, they face the challenge of embracing diversity while remaining true to the artistic vision that initially captured audiences’ hearts.

Striving for Inclusivity and Authenticity

Ultimately, the ongoing dialogue about representation, creativity, and audience engagement will shape Hollywood’s evolution. As new opportunities arise, both filmmakers and audiences yearn for narratives that reflect their experiences and resonate on a deeper level.