Dave Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A nice guy pretends to be the President, fixes everything, and gets the girl, proving that democracy is just a popularity contest with extra steps.

🍿 Dave: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The President’s Double

Dave Kovic, a kind-hearted temp agency owner, moonlights as a President Bill Mitchell impersonator. His striking resemblance catches the eye of White House Chief of Staff Bob Alexander, who recruits Dave for a brief public appearance to cover for the President’s secret rendezvous with an aide. This sets in motion a series of events that will change Dave’s life forever.

A Stroke of Bad Luck

President Mitchell suffers a severe stroke during his tryst, leaving him comatose. Alexander, eager to seize power, persuades Dave to continue the charade indefinitely, keeping the President’s condition a secret. With the help of Communications Director Alan Reed, Dave must now navigate the complexities of the Oval Office while deceiving the First Lady and the nation.

Dave Takes Charge

Initially compliant, Dave’s innate sense of justice and compassion begin to surface. He starts implementing policies that benefit ordinary citizens, winning the public’s favor and attracting the attention of First Lady Ellen Mitchell. As Dave’s popularity grows, Alexander’s control slips, leading to a power struggle with significant consequences for the country.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Dave Kovic/Bill Mitchell (Kevin Kline): A kind-hearted temp agency owner who impersonates the philandering President and unexpectedly improves the country.
• Ellen Mitchell (Sigourney Weaver): The First Lady who is estranged from her husband but is charmed by Dave’s sincerity and honesty.
• Bob Alexander (Frank Langella): The corrupt Chief of Staff who manipulates Dave to seize power for himself.
• Alan Reed (Kevin Dunn): The White House Communications Director who reluctantly aids Bob Alexander in his schemes.
• Duane Stevenson (Ving Rhames): The President’s Secret Service agent who becomes loyal to Dave and ultimately helps expose the truth.
• Vice-President Nance (Ben Kingsley): The honest Vice President who is framed by Bob Alexander but ultimately becomes President.
• Murray Blum (Charles Grodin): Dave’s accountant friend who helps him rework the national budget.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Dave: “I think there are certain things you should expect from your president. I had to care more about you than I do about me.” – Dave explains his motivation for taking on the presidency to the First Lady.
• Dave: “You don’t really know how much you can do, until you stand up and decide to really try.” – Dave speaks about the importance of effort and determination in achieving goals.
• Bob Alexander: “Sometimes you have to do things that you don’t particularly like, in order to maintain the illusion that we all agree.” – Bob cynically explains the nature of politics and compromise to Dave.
• Duane Stevenson: “He’s not a President. He’s an ordinary person. I can kill an ordinary person.” – Stevenson shows his dedication and duty by expressing his willingness to protect the fake President.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $28,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $63,270,710
• Worldwide Gross: $63,270,710

💥 Dave Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved ‘Dave’! It’s one of those movies that just makes you feel good. Kevin Kline is fantastic, and the whole concept is so clever. I really enjoyed how Dave, the regular guy, actually made a positive change in the White House. Sigourney Weaver’s character was great, and I was totally rooting for them to get together. The scene where they are pulled over and sing the ‘Annie’ song always cracks me up. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who needs a good laugh and a little bit of hope.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of political comedies”
  • “Viewers who appreciate feel-good movies”
  • “Those interested in stories about ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances”
  • “People who enjoy Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver’s performances”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Suggestive humor”
  • “Brief references to adultery”
  • “Political corruption themes”

Professional Reviews

• The Washington Post: “Dave is a charming and surprisingly effective political satire. Kline shines in his dual roles, and the film manages to be both funny and heartwarming without becoming overly sentimental. Weaver’s performance adds depth to what could have been a simple romantic subplot.
• Variety: “Ivan Reitman delivers a crowd-pleasing comedy with sharp wit and genuine heart. Kline is excellent, but it’s Langella who truly steals the show as the Machiavellian chief of staff. A feel-good movie that doesn’t insult your intelligence.
• RogerEbert.com: “Dave presents a refreshingly optimistic view of politics without shying away from the cynicism and corruption that often lurks beneath the surface. Kline’s performance is a testament to his versatility. The film is a charming and thought-provoking comedy that deserves to be seen.

Audience Reactions

Viewers praised Kevin Kline’s amazing acting and his ability to portray 2 distinctive characters.: Many enjoyed the movie as a feel-good comedy with an optimistic view of politics.

Most viewers found the romantic subplot between Dave and the First Lady to be charming and engaging.: The balance of comedy and drama made it relatable and enjoyable for a wide audience.

Overall Consensus: A charming and heartwarming comedy with strong performances, offering a feel-good take on politics.

Awards

1. AFI Awards (AFI Movie of the Year)- 1994

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Warren Beatty and Kevin Costner were both considered for the role of Dave Kovic, but both turned it down.”
• “Many real-life political figures and journalists made cameo appearances, adding to the film’s satirical edge and sense of realism. Among them were Senator Paul Simon and news commentators Chris Matthews, Eleanor Clift, and Larry King.”
• “Director Ivan Reitman also appears in the film as a writer during the Larry King Live segment, when Oliver Stone suggests a conspiracy theory.”
• “The film’s plot draws inspiration from historical events, including the real-life instance of Woodrow Wilson’s administration covering up his stroke and allowing his wife to run the country.”

🖥️ How to Watch Dave?

Dave is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu, where it’s often available to rent or buy. Check local listings for cable and satellite on-demand options as well. Several online retailers offer the DVD and Blu-ray versions of the film for physical purchase.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Dave, you might like these similar films:

• The American President (1995): Shares similar themes of romance and idealism within the White House, exploring the personal life of a President.
• Wag the Dog (1997): Explores political spin and deception in Washington, with a comedic but cynical take on manipulating public opinion.
• Being There (1979): A simple gardener’s innocent comments are misinterpreted as profound wisdom, leading to his rise in political influence, similar to Dave’s accidental success.
• Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939): Shares idealism with the theme of an ordinary man going to Washington to fight corruption and make a difference.

🛒 Dave Related Products

• Dave [Blu-ray]: Experience the wit and charm of ‘Dave’ in stunning high definition. This Blu-ray edition includes special features such as behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew, providing a deeper look into the making of this beloved film. A must-have for collectors and fans alike.
• Dave Movie Poster: Add a touch of classic cinema to your home with this high-quality reproduction of the original ‘Dave’ movie poster. Printed on premium paper, it captures the essence of this iconic film. Perfect for framing and displaying in your home theater, office, or living space.
• The President Game: Election Edition: Take control of your own political destiny in ‘The President Game: Election Edition’. Inspired by the themes of ‘Dave’, this strategy game allows you to run for office, manage your campaign, and make crucial decisions that will shape the nation. Perfect for political enthusiasts and strategy gamers alike.
• Dave Movie T-Shirt: Show your love for ‘Dave’ with this comfortable and stylish T-shirt featuring a memorable quote from the film. Made from high-quality cotton, this T-shirt is perfect for everyday wear and a great conversation starter for fellow fans of the movie.

🎧 Soundtrack

Dave features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Don’t” – performed by Elvis Presley
• “Main Title” – performed by James Newton Howard
• “National Anthem” – performed by Various Artists

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

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