For Immediate Release
MICHAEL MOORE OFFERS TO REIMBURSE THE UNITED NURSES OF ALBERTA FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF HIS HIGHLY ACCLAIMED FILM SiCKO
CANADIAN DISTRIBUTOR APPLAUDS MICHAEL MOORE’S ACTION AND OFFERS FREE ADMISSION TO ALL NURSES ACROSS CANADA STARTING MONDAY, JULY 16TH
TORONTO, ONTARIO – July 12, 2007 - In an effort to encourage members of the public to see Michael Moore’s latest provocative and acclaimed film SiCKO last week, The United Nurses of Alberta purchased 150 tickets to distribute to the public. Today, Michael Moore congratulated their efforts and offered to reimburse the union for their action.
When reached for comment, Michael Moore stated, "Nurses across Canada are on the front line in the battle against those forces who want to inch the Canadian health care system toward the American way. They know that once a Canadian sees SiCKO, the last thing they will want is an American-style approach. The problems that do exist with the Canadian system are a result of it being under-funded. The solution to better health care in Canada cannot be found south of the border."
As further show of appreciation, Alliance Atlantis* Motion Picture Distribution announced today that it will offer one free admission to see SiCKO to all nurses across Canada for a limited time starting on Monday, July 16th through to Thursday, July 19th. Nurses must present valid documentation at the box office of participating theatres**.
“Sometimes it takes an American like Michael Moore, to remind us of what Canada does right,” says United Nurses of Alberta President Heather Smith. “Some people are constantly pushing to turn health care into a profit-making business. SiCKO is an excellent vaccination against that privatization disease. It’s good for our health.”
Jim Sherry, Executive Managing Director of Alliance Atlantis* Motion Picture Distribution comments, “We applaud the United Nurses of Alberta for their enthusiasm and hope to encourage others in the nursing profession to see the film that continues to spark debate across this country. By offering this opportunity to nurses across Canada, we are acknowledging the considerable amount of interest that has been expressed to us by several nurses unions and it is our hope that this gesture will resonate in continued dialogue and debate surrounding this remarkable film.”
Canadian exhibitors, Cineplex Entertainment and Empire Theatres, have displayed overwhelming support by participating in this special promotion as well as displaying generous support to the nurses' unions throughout the country.
SiCKO, Michael Moore’s highly acclaimed and entertaining expose of the American health care system, continues to captivate audiences across the country. It is written, directed and produced by Michael Moore. The film is produced by Meghan O’Hara and co-produced by Anne Moore. Kathleen Glynn, Bob Weinstein and Harvey Weinstein serve as executive producers.
**Nurses must present one of the following along with photo id at the box office to obtain a free ticket for SiCKO: License, Practice Permit, Registration Card or Valid Union ID. Participating theatres include Cineplex Entertainment, Empire and Landmark Theatres only.
About Motion Picture Distribution LP
Motion Picture Distribution LP (“MPD”) is a leading distributor of motion pictures in Canada, with motion picture distribution operations in the United Kingdom and Spain. MPD distributes filmed entertainment to theatres, on DVD, and to television broadcasters. Alliance Atlantis Communications Inc. (TSX: AAC.A, AAC.B) indirectly holds a 51% ownership interest in MPD and Movie Distribution Income Fund (TSX: FLM.UN) indirectly holds the remaining ownership interest in MPD.
-30-
* "Alliance Atlantis" with the stylized "A" design is licensed from Alliance Atlantis Communications Inc., an indirect limited partner of Motion Picture Distribution LP, not a general partner.
| 
