here! Films Acquires Rights to Political Doc "Saving Marriage"

here! Films, the theatrical distribution and worldwide sales division of here! Networks, announced today that it has acquired worldwide distribution rights to "Saving Marriage," an award-winning documentary on gay marriage from producers/directors, John Henning and Mike Roth. Regent Releasing has pushed up the release date of "Saving Marriage" to release in select cities beginning October 10, 2008 in an effort to defeat Proposition 8 in California and take advantage of upcoming elections on November 4th.Regent Releasing has officially partnered with Equality California, a leading organization fighting for marriage equality in California.

The partnership between Regent Releasing and Equality California is designed to help the organization raise visibility and funds for the "No on Prop 8" campaign through advanced benefit screenings of the film in Los Angeles and San Francisco."We are proud to join the fight for marriage equality in California and across the country and are honored to be working with such a talented producing team and amazing organization like EQCA on the release of this important documentary before such a pivotal election period," said Mark Reinhart, West Coast General Manager and EVP, Distribution and Acquisitions, Regent. "We hope this film will not only educate audiences on the importance of defeating Prop 8 in California but encourage Americans nationwide to vote locally," he added.

"Saving Marriage" chronicles the two-years after the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial court ruled gay marriage legal in November of 2003. Public outcry pushed conservative legislators to approve a constitutional amendment that would override the decision and take marriage away from the gay and lesbian couples. The film archives the fight as career politicians who stand up to their constituents and follow their hearts, seasoned lobbyists who see the dream of the gay rights movement suddenly within reach, and as the gay community spurs into action by an issue that could change their lives."This film is relevant to what is happening in California today, where we face Proposition 8, the divisive ballot measure that would eliminate marriage for same-sex couples," said Equality California Executive Director Geoff Kors.

"Committed same-sex couples -- many of whom have been together for decades -- deserve the same right to marry as any other loving couples in California. EQCA's NO on 8 committee is pleased to have the support of Regent and here! Films as we work together to defeat Prop 8.""We are thrilled to be working with Regent Releasing on our debut documentary," said John Henning, co-producer and co-director of the film. "'Saving Marriage' was a two-year passion project for both Mike and I. We hope our documentary inspires all those who see the film to continue the fight for marriage equality."

The acquisition of "Saving Marriage" was negotiated by Mark Reinhart, West Coast General Manager & Executive Vice President Distribution and Acquisitions for Regent and Mike Roth and John Henning."Saving Marriage" will be released in the following markets: San Francisco (10/10), Los Angeles (10/17), Boston (10/17), New York City (10/24) and Denver (11/7).

For more information about the movie, please visit the official website.