Stephen Gyllenhaal’s screening of GRASSROOTS

Earlier this this semester (Saturday, October 15, 2011), Cinestudio held a special sneak-preview screening of alumnus Stephen Gyllenhaal’s latest film: GRASSROOTS. Gyllenhaal, ’72, was there to present the film and host an interactive panel discussion after the screening. Gyllenhaal says about the film, “Grassroots politics. Real politics. Politics of the people. Democracy. Thatʼs what this movie plays with, in an entertaining way. We will be using the film to joyfully and tactically try to get people to run for office: What Grassroots is truly about is this upcoming election and beyond, an election that might be one of the most important that the US has experienced. We want to make a change. We hope our movie will help.” The film kept the audience laughing heartily, but at the same time managed to feel inspirational.

After the film, Gyllenhaal emphasized the importance of using film and social media in conjunction with active politics. Lining students up, Gyllenhaal had students interested in film tape students who were interested in running for office. While they responded to his questions on their political experiences, Gyllenhaal gave advice and instruction to his film crew. This amazing opportunity was followed by further discussion and a food reception in McCook Auditorium. Gyllenhaal brought his passion and enthusiasm and clearly affected many students and audience members at the Cinestudio screening.
Trinity was an early stop at what is becoming a nationwide college tour. Gaining momentum after the successful Cinestudio screening, Grassroots has gotten attention from many prestigious universities across the country, and has already lined up a packed November schedule. Footage of Gyllenhaal and the screening, filmed by Trinity students, can now be viewed on the Grassroots homepage as they promote the film to audiences across the country (see below).

Speak out—get involved—run for office— and the Grassroots team will help you!
GRASSROOTS Starring Jason Biggs, Joel David Moore, Lauren Ambrose and Cedric the Entertainer will be hitting theaters early this spring.

Grassroots Goes to College (featuring footage from Trinity)
College Tour (list of further screenings and feedback from Trinity students)
Film Homepage (where you can find information on how to run for office!)

Signed,

John Michael Mason