April 26 @Media Arts Center– Sacco and Vanzetti brings to life the story of two Italian immigrant anarchists who were accused of a murder in 1920, and executed in Boston in 1927 after a notoriously prejudiced trial.

The ordeal of Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti came to symbolize the bigotry and intolerance directed at immigrants and dissenters in America, and millions of people in the U.S. and around the world protested on their behalf. Decades later, the story continues to have great resonance, as America once again grapples with issues of civil liberties and the rights of immigrants.

Sacco and Vanzetti dramatically interweaves the political and personal stories of the two men and their seven-year legal ordeal. The powerful prison writings of Sacco and Vanzetti are read by actors John Turturro and Tony Shalhoub. A chorus of passionate commentators propels the narrative, including Howard Zinn, Studs Terkel, Arlo Guthrie, and a number of older people with personal connections to the story.

Through the tragic story of Sacco and Vanzetti, and the inspiring images of those who keep their memories alive, the film presents a universal – and very timely – tale of official injustice and human resilience.

From Willow Pond Films

Sacco and Vanzetti
Filmmaker: Peter Miller
Distributor: First Run Features
Website
2006 USA 82 minutes