Doug is a Secret Service Agent who has just completed his stint in charge protecting Tess Carlisle—the widow of a former U.S. President, and a close personal friend of the current President. He finds that she has requested that he not be rotated but instead return to be her permanent detail. Doug is crushed, and—after returning—wants off her detail as she is very difficult to guard and makes her detail crazy with her whims and demands.
Former First Lady Tess Harding is living a quiet life in retirement, but her Secret Service detail is still very much in place. When she decides she's had enough of being watched, she attempts to fire her longtime agents. This prompts the Secret Service to assign a younger, more aggressive agent, Doug Chesnic, to the case. Doug must learn to navigate Tess's fiery personality while protecting her from a growing threat.
Guarding Tess received a mixed to positive reception from critics and audiences. While some found the premise charming and praised the performances, particularly Shirley MacLaine's, others felt the film didn't fully capitalize on its potential for humor or dramatic depth.
Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film, appreciating the chemistry between MacLaine and Cage and the humorous situations that arose from their contrasting personalities. Some viewers found the plot predictable but were entertained by the performances.
Shirley MacLaine based her portrayal of Tess Harding on her own mother, who was known for her strong personality and independent spirit.
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