"I.O.U.S.A." Gains Washington's Attention
July 14, 2008
Buzz about "I.O.U.S.A.," the PGPF-supported, nonpartisan documentary that tells the story of the national debt, is growing in Washington. The film will screen for reporters in the area on Monday night.
The screening follows a private showing last week on Capitol Hill for members of Congress and other invited guests. In attendance were House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Senate Budget Committee ranking member Judd Gregg, among others. Since then, a number of other members, including several in the congressional leadership, have asked to see the film. The movie also will screen for attendees of both presidential conventions courtesy of a brand-new film festival being announced on Tuesday.
As CEO Dave Walker announced at PGPF's official launch in New York last week, "I.O.U.S.A." will premiere with an unprecedented national media event broadcast to 400 theaters on August 21 before opening in 10 cities around the country the following day. The August 21 event - stay tuned for more details! - is one example of how PGPF intends to make innovative use of media to raise the public's awareness and inspire them to act on the fiscal challenges threatening America's economic well-being.
"I.O.U.S.A." is directed by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Patrick Creadon ("Wordplay") and is being distributed by Roadside Attractions ("Super Size Me"). It tells the story of the country's four key deficits - budget, savings, balance of payments/trade, and leadership - and their implications for the nation and its citizens. We are faced with an ever-expanding government and military, increased foreign competition, and financial obligations that will become ever more difficult to honor absent meaningful reforms. As 78 million baby boomers begin to retire and collect benefits from the government's over-extended entitlement programs, an economic crisis of epic proportions awaits.
The film also examines why, historically, our government has grown accustomed to spending more than it raises through taxes. The conclusion offers suggestions for how best to recreate a fiscally sound nation for future generations.
