Morgan Freeman, Winona Ryder, and Others Perform Declaration of Independence in 2001 Short Film
In 2001, renowned producer Norman Lear purchased a unique Dunlap broadside of the Declaration of Independence for $8.1 million. To commemorate this historic document, Lear teamed up with director Rob Reiner to produce a short film featuring a powerful reading performed by a lineup of Hollywood luminaries. Filming took place on July 4, 2001, at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, with veteran cinematographer Conrad Hall at the helm. The cast included Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas, Winona Ryder, and others. The film emphasizes the significance of the Declaration, especially in the context of the nation facing the impending September 11 attacks.
Key facts
- Norman Lear bought a Dunlap broadside of the Declaration of Independence for $8.1 million in 2001.
- The broadside is one of about 200 printed by John Dunlap on July 4, 1776.
- Lear co-produced a 2001 short film with Rob Reiner featuring actors reading the Declaration.
- The film was shot at Independence Hall in Philadelphia on July 4, 2001.
- Cinematographer Conrad Hall shot the film; his credits include Cool Hand Luke and American Beauty.
- Actors include Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas, Winona Ryder, Edward Norton, Renée Zellweger, and Benicio del Toro.
- Freeman states in the film that Jefferson intended the Declaration to be performed.
- The broadside toured to the 2002 Olympics, Super Bowl XXXVI, and Live 8 concert in Philadelphia.
Entities
Artists
- Norman Lear
- Rob Reiner
- Morgan Freeman
- Michael Douglas
- Winona Ryder
- Edward Norton
- Renée Zellweger
- Benicio del Toro
- Conrad Hall
- Thomas Jefferson
- John Dunlap
Institutions
- Open Culture
Locations
- Philadelphia
- United States
- Independence Hall