Following the Supreme Court’s ruling on Proposition 8 – California’s ban on same-sex marriages – HBO Documentary Films announced the details of directors Ben Cotner and Ryan White’s inside look at the case at the heart of the Supreme Court’s decision. Cotner and White have been working on the project for five years and had “exclusive access” to legal team Ted Olson and David Boies as well as the four plaintiffs – Kris Perry and Sandy Stier, and Jeffrey Zarrillo and Paul Katami.
HBO is planning on airing the documentary in 2014. Announcing the film, HBO Programming President Michael Lombardo said, “The story of the battle to overturn Prop 8 is the story of a modern-day American revolution. HBO is proud to present what is intended to be the film of record on this landmark case.”
The documentary explores the people at the center of the historic case. “I’ve always said that the best evidence in this case is to hear our clients tell their stories,” said Ted Olsen. “Paul, Jeff, Kris and Sandy have been brave enough to share their lives with the courts and now with the world. As Ben and Ryan tell this incredible story – that for me was the most important case I’ve ever worked on – people will inevitably be moved by getting to know these amazing individuals.”
Adds David Boies: “The evidence at trial, including from the defendants’ own witnesses on cross-examination, proved that discriminating against LGBT couples seriously harmed them and their children, without any benefit to anyone. The opponents of marriage equality have successfully blocked the release of the videotapes of that testimony. But they cannot block this documentary. Everyone who sees this film will understand the pain our fellow citizens feel when they are deprived of the right to marry the person they love – and why that pain is so unnecessary.”
“Watching this case unfold has been a master class in the judicial system and in the ongoing movement towards realizing equality in this country,” stated director Ryan White. “We are excited to share that experience with the world.”
Source: HBO
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