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William S. Burroughs: A Man Within Picked Up For Distribution.

Beastie Boy Adam Yauch’s Oscilloscope Laboratories has picked up first time filmmaker Yony Leyser’s documentary William S. Burroughs: A Man Within for distribution.
The film, narrated by Peter Weller follows the life of the legendary beat author with  never-before-seen archival footage of Burroughs, as well as exclusive interviews with colleagues and confidants including John Waters, Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, Gus Van Sant, Genesis Breyer P-Orridge, Sonic Youth, Laurie Anderson, Amiri Baraka, Jello Biafra, and David Cronenberg.

His novel, “Naked Lunch”, was one of the last books to be banned by the U.S. government. Allen Ginsberg and Norman Mailer testified on behalf of the book. The courts eventually overturned their decision in 1966, ruling that the book had important social value. It remains one of the most recognized literary works of the 20th century.

William S. Burroughs: A Man Within is a probing, yet loving look at the man whose works at once savaged conservative ideals, spawned countercultural movements, and reconfigured 20th century culture.

A Man Within’ currently is set for a fall theatrical release with a DVD and digital release to follow thereafter. The film will also get a television broadcast as part of the PBS series “Independent Lens” in their 2010-2011 season. You can check out the trailer for the film below.

http://www.burroughsthemovie.com/