5/31/2004

in

The controversy over Michael Moore's documentary is resolved.

Heather Monley

Miramax has finally found a solution for the U.S. release of "Fahrenheit 9/11," Michael Moore's controversial anti-Bush documentary. The film will be released to theatres by a consortium of independent production companies, including Miramax founders Bob and Harvey Weinstein's own company, the Fellowship Adventure Group, along with IFC films and Lion's Gate Entertainment Corp. Lion's Gate has helped Miramax out before by releasing the too-hot-for-Disney "Dogma," and IFC has a history of making small films big.  
  
The film critiques the Bush administration's reaction the September 11 attacks, and demonstrates ties between the Bushes and Osama Bin Laden's family. Controversy has been surrounding the documentary since Disney blocked their Miramax division from releasing the film, claiming that they did not want to be tied to a political statement during an election year. The inflammatory Michael Moore accused Disney of less admirable motives, arguing that they wanted to maintain Bush-related tax cuts. Even more buzz has surrounded the film since it's unprecedented success at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a twenty-minute standing ovation and won the prestigious Palme d'Or.  
  
In their deal with parent company Disney, Miramax bought "Fahrenheit 9/11" for reportedly around $6 million. The film will be released on June 25 - even earlier than Moore's hoped-for July 4 opening - and will come out on video sometime in the fall, right at the peak of the presidential campaign commotion