Fred Thompson and Reagan: Different Types of Mediocre Actors

[mitchum]

Granted, both Thompson and Reagan are mediocre actors, but there is a crucial difference.
Like most marginally talented actors, they both project only one quality.
The difference?
Reagan projected that sunny upbeat "golly gee" optimistic horseshit.
Thompson's stock in trade is dour and grumpy.
Reagan's "talent" worked well as a cover for the true draconian nature of republican policies. For them, this was a good use of his limited range.
Sure, the authoritarian types will be drawn to the idea of receiving a spanking from grumpy Papa Fred while they wiggle provocatively on his lap...
but will it play in Peoria?

[Phredicles]

1. I first saw Old Fred on a "Roseanne" episode in the late '80s

(when it was still mostly a good show) as an all-around asshole boss.

I will say I found him totally believable in that role.

[mitchum]

2. kick