We are seeking North America based scholars or professionals who will write and submit a documentary film review either to an academic or professional journal (print or online), an association newsletter or website, or an e-mail listserv.

Prospective reviewers should first contact the editor of an appropriate publication or other outlet to confirm that they will consider publication of your film review. Once you have secured a review assignment, you may then contact me off-list at gary@IcarusFilms.com to obtain a preview copy of DAMAGES.

In the United States, when someone dies as a result of the negligence or liability of another person -- medical malpractice, a highway accident, murder -- a wrongful death lawsuit, seeking monetary damages for the loss of financial or emotional support, may be filed by surviving family members. Over $100 billion in such personal injury compensation, or "damages," is paid each year.

DAMAGES (color, 69 mins.) goes inside the offices of Koskoff, Koskoff and Bieder, one of the biggest American law firms specializing in such lawsuits. The film observes the lawyers as they meet with the families of victims, examine documents, gauge the strengths and weaknesses of each case, try to put a value on a life ended prematurely, and decide on a legal strategy.

The film follows several different cases and the procedures involved in preparing to file suit, including visiting a crime scene, filming an interview with a client for showing in court, trying the case before a mock jury, and discussing with clients offers made by insurance companies and their options to either settle out of court or go to trial.

In a private session, when the firm's lawyers and other staff members discuss a specific suit, they crunch numbers to arrive at an estimate of the maximum payout possible from the defendant's insurance company. While wrongful death attorneys are obviously sympathetic to their clients' personal tragedies, in the end DAMAGES reveals that seeking the highest possible compensation is also clearly a business.

For further information on this film, visit the Icarus Films website at http://www.icarusfilms.com/new2008/dama.html

Sincerely,

Gary Crowdus

Director of Marketing and Publicity

Icarus Films

32 Court Street, 21st Floor

Brooklyn, NY 11201

Email: gary@IcarusFilms.com

Phone: (718) 488-8900

Fax: (718) 488-8642

http://www.IcarusFilms.com