STATEMENT ON THE MONTREAL FILM FESTIVAL SITUATION
August 4th 2005

We learned today that the Montreal Festival, bowing to intense pressure from one and possibly several major sponsors, has decided to cancel its invitation to screen our film "Karla".   The producers wish to thank Serge Losique of the Montreal Festival for his original invitation, and for his many public statements in support of the artistic merit of film.   We will continue to work responsibly and diligently to bring the film to theaters, and at the same time will also continue to  engage in responsible public debate about the film, its merits, and the role of freedom of speech and artistic expression in North America.

We also take note of the fact that the sponsors who threatened to withdraw their financial support to the festival over the festival selection of "Karla" did so without having seen the film.  In recent days we put forward a proposal through the festival to allow the sponsors in question to pre-screen the film, but this proposal was not accepted.

We also take note of the following comments, reported in the Canadian media, by prominent Canadian writers and producers:

Peter Simpson, Producer, Norstar Films:  "I was hoping the people lobbying against the movie would see the folly of their way. This is a very dangerous precedent for the film business."

Stephen Williams, Author, Invisible Darkness:  "This is appalling, outrageous."

Finally, we wish to thank the many Canadians who have written to us via our website since this decision was announced, expressing support for artistic freedom of expression and for our rights as film-makers.  Your expressions of support are much appreciated.

Sincerely,

Michael D. Sellers
Producer

Main   Latest News   Synopsis   Trailer