With the heightened interest of the scheduled appearance of Michael Moore at the Del Mar fairgrounds, and the upcoming election, a screening of the controversial documentary “Fahrenheit 9/11” was presented in the Arts 240 building on October 5

Among the audience, was a panel of distinguished speakers such as Scott Greenwood, CSUSM professor of political science, Beth Accomando, KPBS film critic, and Daniel McSwain, editorial page editor of the North County Times.

The screening began at 6p.m. and was followed by a group discussion conducted by the panel of speakers. Most of the audience seemed to enjoy the film as laughter occasionally swept the room.

Admission prices were $2.50 for Cal State San Marcos students, $3 for faculty and staff and $4 for other guests.

After the screening, audience members exchanged opinions and views with each other and with the panel of speakers. The topics ranged from the quality of the documentary to Michael Moore himself and to the question, “How much truth is portrayed in the documentary?” McSwain and Greenwood suggested when we collect information and opinions, we should consider both sides. 

“We should not only see what’s being reported but also what’s not being reported,” said Greenwood. “I think the documentary is very thought provoking. No matter what perceptive you have, it forces you to think. Whether we are avid watchers of NBC, Fox News, CNN or PBS, we tend to see the world in a certain way. Thus, seeing alternative points of view helps us realize there are biases out there.”

 “I have mixed feelings about the documentary. I think it’s great that it was made because Michael Moore focuses on issues and ideas that aren’t really being covered in the mainstream media. However, I object to the fact that he takes some short cuts and does some manipulation that isn’t needed,” said Accomando.

On the impact “Farenheit9/11” will have on the upcoming election, all three speakers agree that the documentary won’t convert people but only make people think and analyze further.