All Movie Guide
Inspired by Howard Zinn's bestseller A People's History of the United States's this star studded documentary takes an unguarded look at our nations decades-long struggle with the pressing issues of war, race, class, and women's rights. Contributors include Viggo Mortensen, Danny Glover, Marisa Tomei, and Kerry Washington, each of whom present live stage performances of historical testimonies. Additional actors assume the roles of labor leaders, civil rights demonstrators, and various other contributors to the original book. Jason Buchanan
From the Studio
Using dramatic and musical performances of the letters, diaries and speeches of everyday Americans, The People Speak focuses on the concept of democracy based on the lives and experiences of ordinary Americans who, through their words and actions, changed the course of history. Narrated by Howard Zinn and based on his bestselling books, A People's History of the United States, and Voices of a People's History, this groundbreaking documentary film illustrates the relevance of these passionate historical moments to our society today, reminding us that democracy is not a spectator sport and to never take liberty for granted. A journey from the founding of this country to the civil rights movement and beyond, The People Speak uses star power to celebrate democracy: executive producer Matt Damon reads from The Declaration of Independence; Bruce Springsteen performs Woody Guthrie's "This Land is Your Land"; while other accomplished performers, including Morgan Freeman, Marisa Tomei, Josh Brolin, Viggo Mortensen, Kerry Washington, Bob Dylan and Eddie Vedder lend their voices to help re-create the emotional impact of these moments in history.