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Movies Have Become The Soapbox For Dissent And The Latest Entry "George Bush Goes to Heaven" Produced By Hermosa Beach Filmworks Is No Exception As It Speculates George’s Arrival At Heaven’s Gates

Movies are becoming the standard bearer for the dissatisfied, the disenfranchised of this country. Special interest and humanitarian groups no longer have a monopoly on political and social dissent.

Small, independent filmmakers are stepping up to the plate and making their voices heard confronting the issues placated by mainstream media. These movies reach out to younger audiences who are almost immune to traditional politics and create a contagious questioning fever about the future of their country.

Individually, these filmmakers have limited impact, but in concert their message rings loud and clear. Films like "Fahrenheit 9/11" together with "Unconstitutional" and "An Inconvenient Truth" echo in documentary style a resounding indictment of this administration's record.

The film "George Bush Goes to Heaven" finds another way using satire and humor to unveil the controversy. Supposedly, in heaven, George would have to tell the truth. This premise sets up some funny situations, but the story is much more involved than that.

Larry Sparks, the main character, is an angry Republican. The costly and unjustified war in Iraq, the rising influence of religious groups over US policy and widespread misconduct and corruption are just some of the things that drive him crazy. Frustrated by the antics of his own political party, he vents his anger in chat rooms, Web logs and e-mails. After being accused of “un-American activities” by federal agents and being warned to cease his complaints, Larry realizes that he must act. He decides to quit his job, sell his house and launch an all-out campaign against right-wing politics.

His wife is a bit more pragmatic, and convinces him to attempt something more realistic and affordable: an edgy, satirical community play called “George Bush Goes to Heaven.” With the help of a local theater group, he develops the concept of George appearing at the gates of heaven, where in order to enter, he must defend his life and actions as president. No deceptions, no evasions, just the truth.

However, Larry's efforts attract some powerful enemies and a shadowy plan is hatched to sabotage his project. Larry must make a choice, either lose his play or compromise his morals. Only a stroke of inspiration - and a little luck - can save Larry's message from being corrupted.

Whether you are a conservative Republican or a liberal Democrat, "George Bush Goes to Heaven" is a film that will foster productive discussions. It stars John Ross Clark ("The West Wing,") Jean St. James ("Charmed") and newcomer Kevin A Klein. Other featured players include Jack Kyle ("Intolerable Cruelty,") Sam Scarber ("Desperate Housewives,") and Patrick Gorman ("Gettysberg.")

The film, written and directed by Jonathan Liebert ("The Making of Touché,") and produced by Hermosa Beach Filmworks opens August 15 at the Laemmle Grand Theater in downtown Los Angeles. Jonathan echoes Edward R. Murrow's words, "We must not confuse dissent from disloyalty."

For additional information, visit HeavenTheMovie.com.
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