Steal This Movie MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 Content: -3 1/2

1960s radical revolutionary Abbie Hoffman (Vincent DOnofrio) would not be deterred from getting his message out. This film chronicles events in the life of the famous protester with Abbie pictured as a man who cares about helping people in need. He appreciates fairness in life, and decries rich and powerful people hoarding the countrys financial resources. However, Abbie is also a man on the run, who occasionally breaks the law and eventually goes underground to avoid life imprisonment. DOnofrio delivers a fantastic performance as the charismatic Yippie [Youth International Party founded by Hoffman] leader, blending a magnetic quality with sometimes extreme paranoia about the government following him. But while DOnofrios performance clearly carries the film, the story becomes a muddled string of events with very little connection between them. Only history buffs and fans of radical celebrities are likely to try STEAL THIS MOVIE.

Hoffman, who committed suicide in 1989, had many ideas on ways to improve the nation, most ensuring some amount of Socialistic-style fair treatment for all people, regardless of race, background, or even hair length. His contentious relationship with the government is central to the story, as he rails against the government powers, protests the Vietnam War, and advocates a brand of Socialism to spread the nations wealth to everyone. In one political attack, Abbie makes the catchy statement that, sacred cows make the best hamburgers. In spite of Hoffmans zeal for people and fairness, his life and this movie are polluted with lots of objectionable material. On the run from the FBI, Abbie maintains an adulterous sexual relationship with a young woman, even though his wife and child wait for his eventual return. One of Hoffmans prankish protests features crowds that include topless women with painted breasts. Several people are also pushed, punched, and beaten at his rallies. Forty-two f-words and 32 s-words further pollute the dialogue. Foul content makes STEAL THIS MOVIE not worth taking.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Lions Gate Films, 5750 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 501, LA, CA 90036