tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72430895370047121.post-11997077550637435402008-04-10T16:13:00.004-04:002008-04-10T17:36:22.335-04:00How often do you get a chance to be simultaneously entertained, informed and inspired to take action at the movies – and emerge with your paycheck intact?<br /><br />This can be your experience on Wednesday, April 16 when "The Visitor" is screened for free at Boston's Regal Fenway (7 PM; 201 Brookline Ave., near Fenway T stop). To make sure you are assured of a seat, email <a href="mailto:jmathews@alliedadvpub.com">jmathews@alliedadvpub.com</a>, call (617) 425-8930, or just plan to be there early.<br /><br />How can I vouch in such positive terms for a film that has yet to be released? Last night I introduced it on behalf of the ACLU of Massachusetts at another special screening at Coolidge Corner, and afterwards moderated a discussion with the audience and the film's convincing lead actor, Richard Jenkins, of "Six Feet Under" fame. The ACLU is involved because Participant Media, one of the film's producers, has launched a consciousness-raising campaign around the film, taking on one of our most poorly understood issues, the rights of immigrants.<br /><br />I don't want to give the story away. Suffice it to say that if you don't know much about the detention and deportation polices of the Bureau of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), director Tom McCarthy ("The Station Agent") provides the basics in "The Visitor." The film bridges the gap between "them" and "us" with such sweet grace that it can be a great conversation-starter, judging from last night's lively Coolidge Corner discussion.<br /><br />So plan to visit "The Visitor" when it is shown in Boston on April 16 – and then work with us to restore fairness and humanity to our immigration system.<br /><br />Nancy Murray<br />Director of Education<br />ACLU of MassachusettsNancy Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14046507399626683988noreply@blogger.com