ROCKLAND  — The documentary film Bad Press will be screened Saturday, May 17, at 5:30 pm., at the Strand Theatre. The film screening and post-film discussions will focus on the stakes of government censorship of the news.

The new film, directed by Rebecca Landsberry-Baker and Joe Peeler, shares a story of the Muscogee Nation in Oklahoma. When tribal leadership abruptly repeals its landmark Free Press Act to muzzle the tribe’s hard-hitting news outlet, defiant and foul-mouthed journalist Angel Ellis charges headfirst into a historic battle to restore her tribe’s press freedoms. 

“This film shows what happens when elected officials go to extreme lengths to maintain their power by stifling free reporting,” says Drew Himmelstein, community engagement editor for the Midcoast Villager, in a news release. “And it’s a great, suspenseful movie that sparks fascinating conversations about journalism, elective government, and the limits of power.” 

This program is a collaboration of The Midcoast Villager, Points North Institute, the Lesher Family Foundation, and the Strand Theatre. 

After the film, join Angel Ellis, director Joe Peeler and Villager Publisher Aaron Britt to discuss what we can learn from this timely story about a lone journalist fighting a corrupt system for her fellow citizens.

A reception hosted by the Lesher Family Foundation will follow in the theater lobby.

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.rocklandstrand.com/ and will be available at the door 30 minutes prior to showtime. 

For tickets and information, visit RocklandStrand.com or call (207) 594-0070. Regular movie ticket pricing applies to these screenings: $10/Adults, $8/Seniors and kids, $7/Strand Members.

The Strand Theatre is located at 345 Main Street, Rockland.