he filmmakers call for first generation immigrant, film mogul and California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, to support immigrant rights for all Americans and their foreign born partners by using his political clout to rally support behind the issue.
October 10, 2006 -- With a finger on the pulse of such issues as same-sex marriage and immigration, a new independent film combines the two political hot potatoes into a highly
controversial film set to hit theaters in limited release beginning November 10 in Los Angeles with additional cities to follow.
The film, Maple Palm, dramatizes the obscure yet timely issue of same-sex immigration. If an American falls in love with a foreigner of the same-sex, there'ss no legal basis for the
couple to stay together. States Robert J. Feldman, one of the film'ss producers and co-stars. The film also raises a notion completely unheard of by most Americans - that some U.S. born
citizens have to flee their homeland to find true freedom elsewhere in the world; and not because they don'st love this country, but because this country doesn'st love them. The
filmmakers expressed disappointment with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger'ss lack of support for same-sex marriage rights, which in turn trumps same-sex immigration rights;
stating they expected more from a first generation immigrant.
Maple Palm stars Deborah Stewart, Taymour Ghazi and supporting players; all of whom deliver intense and powerful performances from an IFP/NY acclaimed screenplay. The result is an
emotional and tragic love story that the filmmakers believe will leave audiences thinking long after the screening has ended. Sourcing information from longtime immigration attorneys and
combining it with the universal commonality of love, the filmmakers insist their opus isn'st just for gay audiences, Our film will resonate with anyone who'ss ever made deep sacrifices
for someone they love. And first or second generation immigrants will appreciate the film'ss raw dramatization of how easily residency can be revoked; a fear many immigrants live with,
straight or gay.
The original score by Rebecca Hansen and Katy J is an edgy, eclectic mix of Christian music and alternative rock. Rebecca, a devout Christian known for religious ballads, is excited to
see her music featured in a lesbian love story where her lyrics take on a profound duality in meaning. The filmmakers originally had thoughts of casting Hansen in the lead role before
Deborah Stewart wowed them in an audition and was cast as Nicole. But Hansen'ss music captivated the filmmakers on such a deeply profound level that they insisted she be part of the
film'ss score. Impressed with their passion for the subject matter of their controversial film, Hansen agreed to lend her angelic voice to the soundtrack, rounding out the emotional hook
of the film.
Feldman states, Maple Palm is extremely intense, yet intimate; juxtaposing the harsh reality of these circumstances against the sacrifices one makes for love. Nearly 100,000 same-sex
partners are burdened by this issue, so the film is very meaningful to many people.
A national political organization, Immigration Equality, is based out of New York and has local chapters in most major cities across the country. Many high profile politicians are also
backing bills currently before the Senate and Congress; legislation not addressed in the current immigration debate seen on the news.
Maple Palm begins its limited theatrical run in Los Angeles at the Laemmle Grande 4-Plex, 345 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071. Call Theater for Showtimes: (213) 617-0268
To request a screening near you, call your local arthouse theater or visit www.MaplePalmMovie.com to submit a request.