Oscar Nominees Launch Indie Film for Amy Goodman

Filmmakers Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, known for their Oscar-nominated "Trouble the Water," are set to self-release their new documentary, "Steal This Story, Please!". This acclaimed film chronicles the career of progressive journalist and "Democracy Now!" host Amy Goodman.

The documentary is scheduled for its theatrical debut on April 10 at New York City's IFC Center. Following the premiere, Goodman and the filmmakers plan an extensive cross-country tour, with theatrical openings in numerous major cities. The film will subsequently expand its reach to dozens more screens across the United States throughout April and May.

Deal and Lessin collaborated with experienced distribution professionals for this self-distribution strategy. "Steal This Story, Please!" has already received significant recognition, winning multiple audience and jury awards at prestigious film festivals nationwide, including Palm Springs, Seattle, Woodstock, and Santa Barbara.

The filmmakers intend to partner with "Democracy Now!"'s extensive network of radio and television affiliates, alongside grassroots pro-democracy organizations. This strategy aims to bolster support for independent media, particularly in light of perceived challenges to its viability. Goodman's "Democracy Now!" reaches an audience of millions through approximately 1500 stations.

Deal highlighted Goodman's three decades of "challenging authority" and her "fiercely independent journalism" as a vital antidote to the current media landscape. Lessin emphasized the film's appeal across different regions, noting audiences are "hungry for films that challenge the status quo and can unite people." The film premiered last June at DC/DOX, where Goodman discussed the distinction between her grassroots-focused reporting and mainstream media's tendency to gravitate towards power.