Latest Michael Moore Movie Goes Direct-to-Web

Michael Moore's newest documentary, Slacker Uprising, will be available as a free digital download concurrent with its theatrical run. By signing up at SlackerUprising.com, fans of the polarizing Democrat can scope out his 62-city tour rallying young voters to cast against George W. Bush during the 2004 election. The film will be released on September 23.

Moore's previous film, Sicko, received a similar treatment, except it was leaked on the Web and downloaded illegally. Moore stated he did not have a problem with its pre-release, as long as nobody profited from his work. The planned Internet release of Slacker Uprising seems to be a strategic move to have more control over its distribution. Moore also states the download, via BlipTV, will be in high-resolution far superior to the "YouTube quality" of pirated video.

This free digital download tactic was pioneered by musicians Nine Inch Nails and Radiohead; yet this is the first time a major motion picture will be released digitally and in full.

One might think this scheme spells box office poison, but this hasn't been the case for Moore. Despite the opportunity to watch Sicko at home for nothing, the film netted $24 million and became third highest-grossing documentary of all time.

Slacker Uprising is Moore's love letter to his fans as he approaches the 20th anniversary of his seminal film, Roger and Me. "I thought it'd be a nice way to celebrate my 20th year of doing this," Moore said. "And also help get out the vote for November. I've been thinking about what I want to do to help with the election this year." Moore has also released a new book: Mike's Election Guide 2008.

(IMAGE CREDIT: Erik R. Bishoff via Flickr)

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