Browse Movies : 2006 : Rating Not Available : Documentary

"CSA: The Confederate States of America", through the eyes of a faux documentary, takes a look at an America where the South won the Civil War. Supposedly produced by a British broadcasting company, the feature film is presented as a production being shown, controversially, for the first time on television in the States. Beginning with the British and French forces joining the battle with the Confederacy, thus assuring the defeat of the North at Gettysburg and ensuing battles, the South takes the battle northward and form one country out of the two. Lincoln attempts escape to Canada but is captured in blackface. This moment is captured in the clip of a silent film that might have been. Through the use of other fabricated movie segments, old government information films, television commercials, newsbreaks, along with actual stock footage from our own history, a provocative and humorous story is told of a country, which, in many ways, frighteningly follows a parallel with our own. After victory, President Davis brings slavery back to the northern states by offering a tax rebate to businesses and households who will buy and own them. Liberals move to Canada. The nation chooses an expansionist policy and conquers Mexico and South America. As world war looms, the CSA takes a non-aggressive stance toward the Third Reich and their move toward racial purity (although not condoning their wasting of possible slave stock by the Final Solution) and makes a preemptive strike on Japan on December 7, 1941. Kennedy is assassinated soon after being elected, as it appears he will not only emancipate but also give women the vote. A growing black terrorist base stems from Canada and a Cold War breaks out...complete with the Cotton Curtain being built between the two countries. Through it all, including a contemporary run for the presidency, we follow a political dynasty, the Fauntroy family, who lead the country through its triumphs and tragedies. We arrive to a today that, in many ways, we recognize. Although a nation that is content and prosperous, there is a tremendous divide within and suspicious eye without. Current politicians refer to us as two countries and perhaps, other than geographically, there is no difference between Red and Blue or North and South states. We have always struggled as to whether we are the United or Confederate States of America.

Award winning documentarian Barbara Kopple (American Dream; Harlan County, U.S.A.) and Cecilia Peck created the movie, centering on the aftermath of Chicks singer Natalie Maines' infamous statement at a 2003 London concert: "Just so you know, we're ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas." The film chronicles the death threats the band received, as well as political attacks, radio and sales boycotts.

"Why We Fight" is an unflinching look at the military industrial complex and the rise of the American Empire. Inspired by Dwight Eisenhower's legendary farewell speech (in which he coined the phrase "military industrial complex"), the film surveys the scorched landscape of a half-century's military adventures, asking how—and telling why—a nation of, by, and for the people has become the savings-and-loan of a system whose survival depends on a state of constant war. The film moves beyond the headlines of various American military operations to the deeper questions of why—why does America fight? What are the forces—political, economic and ideological—that drive us to fight against an ever-changing enemy?

From the maker of "Into The Deeep" comes another unforgettable IMAX 3D Experience: "Denizens of the Deep" is an astonishing IMAX 3D close encounter with some of the most exotic creatures inhabiting the hidden depths. In the realm of the giant octopus, the rainbow nudibranch, and the Scorpion fish, each one of us becomes a fearless undersea explorer, discovering the strange and unusual partnerships these "star wars" creatures forge to ensure their survival, and learning how this co-operation allows life in this enchanting world to flourish.

Since bursting onto the scene in 1967, Leonard Cohen has inspired generations with his unique personality and haunting music, becoming one of the most original and enduring artists to emerge from the 1960s. Now, Lions Gate is proud to celebrate Cohen's legacy with director Lian Lunson's "Leonard Cohen I'm Your Man", an intimate look at the songs, poetry and life of one of music's most celebrated and influential troubadours.

In January, 2005, Lunson traveled to Sydney to film the historic "Came So Far For Beauty" show, a tribute to Leonard Cohen at the Sydney Opera House organized by famed music producer Hal Willner. "Leonard Cohen I'm Your Man" includes behind-the-scenes interviews and live performances from this event by Nick Cave, Rufus Wainwright, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Martha Wainwright, Beth Orton, Linda Thompson, Teddy Thompson, Jarvis Cocker, The Handsome Family, Julie Christensen and Perla Battala, as well as a special performance of "Tower of Song" by Cohen and U2. And in a series of candid interviews, Cohen himself reveals his trademark wry humor and soulful intensity, using his own artwork, poetry and personal collection of photographs to reflect upon his colorful past and his creative process.

Seven days, 45 finalists, one World Champion. Shot on location in Las Vegas, Nevada, "Rank" takes us from the ranch to the arena for the fascinating struggle of the three highest-ranking bull riders competing for the title of PBR World Champion. Contenders Justin McBride, a third generation bull rider; Mike Lee, a 21 year-old born-again Christian; and Adriano Moraes, a two-time PBR World Champion bring the gritty reality of this hazardous sport into focus for the first time. From preparations to ride through severe injuries and finally, victory for one: a gold belt buckle and a check for one million dollars.

A compelling and provocative look at John Lennon's transformation from beloved musical artist to anti-war activist to iconic inspiration for peace that also reveals the true story of why and how the U.S. Government tried to silence him.

A breakthrough investigation into Hollywood's best-kept secret: the MPAA film ratings system and it's profound impact on American culture.