Samantha Mathis

Louisa May Alcott's classic coming-of-age story follows the childhood adventures of the four free-spirited March sisters: beautiful Meg (Trini Alvarado), fragile Beth (Claire Danes), romantic Amy (Kirsten Dunst) and impetuous Jo (Winona Ryder), who's determined to defy social conventions by seeking her fame and fortune as a writer. As Jo chronicles the family's struggle during the war, their turbulent romances and their lasting friendship, her story unwraps a gift of humor and heartfelt emotions that no one - young or old, male or female - can resist.

What sounds like the high-concept romantic comedy pitch from hell--widower president falls for smart lobbyist while the world watches--is actually intelligent, charming, touching, and quite funny. Granted, it's wish fulfillment all the way (when was the last time you saw a president who was truly presidential?), but in the capable hands of writer Aaron Sorkin (TV's Sports Night) and director Rob Reiner, The American President is incredibly enjoyable entertainment with quite a few ideas about both romance and the government.