In the past week, Hollywood celebs have been spotted in Washington, D.C. discussing politics, the state of broadcast television, and the American constitution. No, they are not scientologists, but a group called the Creative Coalition, in town to meet with Congress to address issues of importance to the “creative community.”
Members include Alan Cumming, Heather Graham, Wendie Malick (remember the show “Just Shoot Me”?), and Joe Pantoliano of “The Sopranos” (currently serving as co-president). The group’s main advocacy issues are the protection of First Amendment rights, funding and support for arts in education, and the prevention of “runaway productions,” films made for cheaper outside of the United States.
Free speech and arts in schools are integral to building a strong culture, no doubt about it. But there is something about this coalition that reeks of that special designer brand of misplaced concern so easy to associate with Hollywood stars.
This on the First Amendment from their website:
In the wake of the Janet Jackson Super Bowl ‘wardrobe malfunction,’ Congress has been considering the Broadcast Decency Enforcement Act of 2004 […] We believe the bill has potentially dangerous impacts on free speech—particularly for individuals.
And just when you thought you would never see the words “wardrobe malfunction” in any serious context again. What about those “runaway productions”? If they were to prevent this getaway film making, I expect that many movie stars would revolt. This would mean missing out on parking their trailers at faraway beach paradises or enjoying the reputed free-love atmosphere of Vancouver, a.k.a. Hollywood North.
–Caroline Dobuzinskis
