American Cultural Center to Present Part Four of "The American President," a Film Series by Philip and Peter Kunhardt

PR0422E | Date: 2004-04-30

On May 6 from 6:30 to 8:35 p.m., part four (episodes 7 and 8) of "The American President" will be shown at the AIT American Cultural Center. This 10-hour series is the first documentary to examine the 41 former U.S. presidents. The series depicts how each president used his power to build coalitions and resolve conflicts, and how they left indelible marks on the United States. Each episode is arranged thematically, juxtaposing the careers of four presidents who may have lived in different centuries or held different political beliefs, but who nevertheless share a defining aspect of what the country looks for in its leaders. These groupings render fascinating comparisons on familiar figures, as well as on the presidency itself. The closing episode will be shown on May 20.

Episode Seven, "The Heroic Posture," profiles George Washington, William Henry Harrison, Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight D. Eisenhower. From the beginning, the Presidential office has beckoned to national heroes renowned for their selfless service to their country. The president-as-national hero exemplifies the value we all place on authenticity in governance. This episode explores four personifications of the ideal.

Episode Eight, "Compromise Choices," profiles Franklin Pierce, James A. Garfield, Warren Harding and Gerald R. Ford. These four candidates were chosen to run for the Presidency because they were less offensive to some voters than those who might have been the best candidates. Two of these men found the Presidency beyond their powers, and the other two proved themselves worthy of having been called to the highest office in the land.

Relevant books and materials will also be on display in the American Cultural Center Resource Service, adjacent to the screening room.

The American Cultural Center is located in Suite 2101, 21F, International Trade Building, No. 333, Keelung Road, Section 1, Taipei. The program is open to the public without charge. Pre-registration is suggested to ensure a seat and an information packet on the program. To indicate your interest, or obtain more information including a complete schedule of the series, please contact Ms. Vicky Tsao at 2723-3959 ext. 283; fax 2725-2644; e-mail: taipei@mail.ait.org.tw.