DIXON, Ill. — The Historic Dixon Theater was packed for the premiere of "Reagan," where the movie was shared with the late president's hometown a week before release.
People from across the country came to the screening, including Carol Wiggim, who was visiting from St. Louis.
"This is just once in a lifetime that we'd be able to go up to a red carpet event, you know, in Illinois, in the little town of Dixon," Wiggim said. She grew up near Tampico, where Reagan was born.
The premiere is closer to home for Don and Gail Merry, who moved to Dixon two years ago.
"I'm excited about the movie itself, and what Reagan represented to the town of Dixon," Don said. "Gail is a big fan of Dennis Quaid, the actor portraying Reagan."
Quaid said he's taking his role seriously.
"It’s an honor is what it is, it really truly is," Quaid said. "Those after 1985 were born, they’ll be able to see this country, how great it still can be."
Quaid also said he's happy to see the town supporting the movie.
"Just about everybody from Dixon is out here right now. I think it’s fantastic," Quaid said.
And the movie is supporting the town, too. Amanda Wike, executive director of Discover Dixon, said people are eager to share Reagan's history.
"We've already seen an uptick in tourism of people interested in the history in the town and seeing the Ronald Reagan boyhood home," Wike said. "We're really proud of the fact that we grew a president in this town. So we're excited to be able to have that celebrated."
Once the movie comes to theaters at the end of the month, Wike expects even more tourists to come to Dixon to learn about the town and the man the community loves.
To prepare for that tourism jump, Wike said Discover Dixon is putting together a Reagan-themed walking tour. Restaurants downtown are also featuring Reagan's favorite dishes.