Reminder: tonight I'll introduce Kirby Dick and a screening of his movie, "This Film is Not Yet Rated" at the University of Southern California. The show is sponsored by the USC Free Culture club, and I can't wait.
"This Film…" was the best documentary I saw this year. It delves into the shadowy world of the MPAA's rating system and the way that it forms a nearly invisible but all-encompassing censorship regime that punishes indie filmmakers far more than the major studios, who run it. The censor board is set up like a star chamber, the members, criteria, and appeals process shrouded in secrecy (Dick punctures the veil by hiring a charming private eye to uncover and reveal the hidden identities of the censors). The MPAA ratings process has been called "Jack Valenti's other mistake" — apart from seeking wildly expanded copyright, that is.
It's an honor to be introducing Mr Dick and his movie — he's a brilliant film-maker with something to say and real courage of his convictions. I hope to see you there tonight.
Where: University of Southern California, Los Angeles: University Park Campus, George Lucas Instructional Building, 108
When: Thursday, November 30, 2006, 7:00pm to 9:00pm
