Bowling for Columbine director to speak

Moore

ichael Moore, the writer, director, and social activist known for his satirical approach to confronting political and economic issues, will speak at 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, in Strong Auditorium.

Moore made his documentary film debut in 1989 with Roger & Me, described as "one of the 10 best films of the year" by more than 100 critics. The film followed Moore's mission to persuade General Motors chairman Roger Smith to visit Flint, Mich., and observe the damage created by the shutdown of GM factories. With the profits from Roger & Me, Moore established the Center for Alternative Media Foundation, which provides independent filmmakers and social action groups financial support.

Moore's most recent film, Bowling for Columbine--the first documentary film accepted into competition at the Cannes Film Festival in 46 years--examines American fascination with guns and violence. The film, which debuted in 2002 to a 13-minute ovation, won the special Cannes 55th Anniversary Prize and is one of the nominees in the documentary category for this year's Academy Awards.

In addition to his film endeavors, Moore has produced, directed, and written two television programs, TV Nation and The Awful Truth. TV Nation, a satirical newsmagazine, won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Informational Series in 1995.

Moore has also written two books. His first, Downsize This: Random Threats from an Unarmed American, was a national bestseller. His most recent book, Stupid White Men: And Other Excuses for the State of the Nation, has also been on the bestseller lists since its release in February 2002.

The University Cinema Group will show both Roger & Me and Bowling for Columbine in Hoyt Hall on the River Campus the weekend preceding Moore's visit. Roger & Me will be screened at 7 p.m., 9 p.m., and 11 p.m. on Friday, March 21. Bowling for Columbine will be shown at 7 p.m., 9:30 p.m., and midnight on Saturday, March 22. Tickets are $2 at the door and $1.75 if purchased in advance at the Common Market.

Admission to the talk is $10 for the general public; $3 for University undergraduate students; and $5 for University faculty, staff, graduate students, and students with ID from other schools. Tickets are available in advance at the Common Market in Wilson Commons on the River Campus and at Aaron's Alley, 669 Monroe Ave.

Moore's appearance at the University is sponsored by the Outside Speakers Committee. For more information, call x5-5911.

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