Dangling story threads do not a great screenplay make, but lame jabs do make for a satirical misfire. So goes the disappointing call-in vote for "American Dreamz," Paul Weitz' spoof of "American Idol," the Bush administration, and terrorists. Written and directed by Weitz ("In Good Company"), the film turns out to be a rather good natured and goofy send-up of all involved.

Make that President Goofy. Dennis Quaid's President Stanton, who just happens to resemble the current Chief Exec, is portrayed as a virtual idiot-puppet controlled by not only his Laura-ish wife (Marcia Gay Harden), but his vice president (Willem Dafoe in a bald wig). That Vice President Sutter looks, talks and behaves like Dick Cheney is a given. It is Sutter who has really run the country for the past four years, and has now successfully helped re-elect Stanton. When Stanton speaks publicly, he literally echoes the vp who whispers all comments into the president's hidden earpiece.

Control begins to change the day Stanton decides to read a newspaper. Up to now he has relied solely on briefings. He starts to understand the concerns of his country for the first time, and asks for current history books and more newspapers. Things get dicey as Sutter feels his power slipping.

The movie then cuts to a send-up of TV's "American Idol," focusing on vain Simon Cowell look alike/act alike Martin Tweed (Hugh Grant). Tweed is in process of lining up talent for the new season of his hit show, "American Dreamz." Like "Idol," this show features amateur singers hoping to be voted as best of the bunch. Unlike the original, "Dreamz" has only one judge, Tweed, who also serves as host and solitary chooser of the best. No viewer call-ins here.

Tweed is attracted to the fame seeking teen Sally Kendoo (Mandy Moore), who is dealing with a spotlight grabbing mom and dimwitted boyfriend. She is soon booked on the show, and there is much made about the ensuing publicity process. For example, the camera crew has to retake the taping of Sally's "surprise" at being told she will be on the show.

Cut to another subplot of Sam Golzari's dorky Omer, a wannabe Broadway singer sent to the U.S. by terrorists (no sponsoring country or group given) who plan using him as an on stage human bomb after he performs on "American Dreamz." The fact he has no talent clinches his success on the show. Meshing it together, President Staton agrees to serve as guest co-judge with Tweed on the season's finale. This will bolster his popularity and let him finally connect with his citizens, Staton reasons. Tweed smells a ratings spike.

Despite dead-on takes by Grant, Moore, Harden, Dafoe, and Golzari, "American Dreamz" loses its satirical edge with an odd, uncomfortable mix of terrorism and talent show. What really hurts is Quaid's ridiculous idiot persona as the prez. It is simply too off center--even with a Texas twang.