MR SPEAKER to Tell Story of American Political Legacy, Tip O'Neill

"Mr. Speaker" will be a feature documentary that tells O'Neill's entire life story, from his early years growing up during the Great Depression to his role in the Watergate Impeachment of Richard Nixon to his later years as Speaker of the House where his relationship with Ronald Reagan began. Contrary to the politics of today, O'Neill and Reagan epitomized bipartisanship and the "Golden Age of Politics." Their relationship helped define mutual civility and finding common ground. The "Mr. Speaker" documentary is based on the New York Times bestseller "Tip O'Neill and the Democratic Century," by John A. Farrell. It will directed by Dimitri Logothetis, who made "MOMO: The Sam Giancana Story" recently having won the Best Featured Documentary in the Monaco Film Festival, as well as the worldwide best selling documentary, "Champions Forever with Muhammed Ali."

O'Neill was one of the last authentic politicians, and he was driven to make the American dream affordable and attainable for all. As one of the most effective House Speakers in history, his lifelong dedication and devotion to improving the lives of the working class forever changed American politics. In 1994, President Bill Clinton stated at O'Neill's funeral, "He loved politics and government because he saw (they) could make a difference in people's lives. And he loved people most of all."

O'Neill's legacy deserves to be remembered for years to come, which is why former O'Neill staff member, Tod O'Connor, and award winning filmmaker, Dimitri Logothetis, are turning to the crowdfunding site, Kickstarter, to help bring his story to life through their film, "Mr. Speaker."

At the risk of his political career, he courageously overcame several crisis of conscious, the effects of which are still felt today. One of O'Neill's more notable moves was eventually opposing the Vietnam War, a key milestone in changing the public perception against the war, the lesson was successfully learned by the House Democrats years later. Another of O'Neill's most famous risks was battling with Ronald Reagan, a popular American President over civil rights, Social Security, foreign policy and jobs at home.

Only one man, during the 20th century has fought for, witnessed and influenced the issues that still shape American's everyday lives. Yet through all of the political, social and economical changes and turmoil of this past century, Tip O'Neill lived, practiced, and passed on to future generations his one legacy that could very well determine the destiny of future elections: "All Politics is Local!"

And soon, there will be a new documentary to preserve his memory and honor his legacy. The film, "Mr. Speaker," recently launched on the popular crowdfunding site, Kickstarter. It will tell O'Neill's entire life story. He was a child of the Great Depression, who worked his way up from being a truck driver to becoming the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, and ending up two heartbeats away from the Presidency. O'Neill dedicated his career of over 50 years to improving the lives of the working class. This is not just a story about Tip O'Neill; it is a lesson of why we as a nation should expect more from our elected officials.

In order to truly capture the uniqueness of O'Neill's life, the producers of "Mr. Speaker" initially need $44,000 to begin writing the documentary. In Tip's own words from his autobiography "MAN OF THE HOUSE:" "I began my political career in 1936 on a slogan of 'work and wages.' Today, more than half a century later, I'm still a bread and Butter liberal who believes that every family deserves the opportunity to earn an income, own a home, educate their children and afford medical care." His cause continues today. It is only fitting that the funding for this project come from the people through Kickstarter!

To help honor Tip O'Neill's memory, and become part of this commemorative project, head to the "Mr. Speaker" Kickstarter page now. Also, stay up to date on all "Mr. Speaker" news by connecting on Facebook and Twitter @MrSpeakerDoc.

About "Mr. Speaker"
Founder Tod O'Connor, a former staff member for Tip O'Neill, brought on filmmaker Dimitri Logothetis to co-produce and direct this documentary. Dimitri Logothetis has excelled in all genres ranging from dramas to action and thrillers. His documentary work is world-renowned,with his last documentary "MOMO: The Sam Giancana Story" having recently won the Best Featured Documentary in the Monaco Film Festival. To learn more about "Mr. Speaker," head to http://bit.ly/TipONeillKS and connect on Facebook and Twitter @MrSpeakerDoc.

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