Reuters.com: Cuomo Blocked from 'Fahrenheit' Appeal

Entertainment News Article | Reuters.com:

"NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) - The distribution team behind Michael Moore's hotly debated documentary 'Fahrenheit 9/11' will face the Motion Picture Assn. of America's (MPAA) ratings appeal board Tuesday without its newly hired legal eagle, former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo.

According to MPAA rules, Cuomo is not allowed to take part in the proceedings because those appearing before the board must be directly associated with the film.

'They have to be actively part of the creation and execution of the film, not a hired gun, who turns it into a trial,' one source close to the situation said.

Without Cuomo by his side, Lions Gate Films president Tom Ortenberg -- whose company is distributing 'Fahrenheit' with IFC Films and Miramax co-chairmen Bob and Harvey Weinstein's Fellowship Adventure Group -- will appeal for a PG-13 rating instead of the R that the MPAA has awarded 'Fahrenheit' for its 'violent and disturbing images and for language.' "

By Ian Mohr

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NOTE: Reuters is displaying the Michael Moore/George Bush holding hands poster next to the article.