baltimoresun.com - Split Screen

baltimoresun.com - Split Screen: "While some groups are calling for boycotts of the Michael Moore-made movie Fahrenheit 9/11, Baltimore's two independent theaters have been arguing over who should be allowed to show it.

The Charles Theatre has blocked the Senator Theater from showing the movie, which opens Friday. The film has drawn attention for its critical look at the Bush administration's actions after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Critics have condemned it as unpatriotic.

The co-owner of the Charles acknowledged that he asked the film's distributor not to release it to the Senator. His rationale is that such anticipation, and box office potential, for an independent film is rare. 'It's nothing against the Senator,' said James 'Buzz' Cusack. 'It's just that the few good movies that we get, it's important to have the title to ourselves.'

Edie Donohue, a consultant who lives in North Baltimore, said she would see the movie in either theater.

"There are enough customers to support a double screening," she said. "I'm puzzled to why the Charles is so resistant."

By Andrea K. Walker
Sun Staff