The Good, the Bad, and the Famous

Why have celebrated actors, athletes and musicians become publicly involved with politics, and what political roles do they play? To answer these questions, documentary film producer/screenwriter/journalist Sherman traveled around America and talked with Charlton Heston, Ed Asner, John Randolph and other performers; political organizer Robert Squier; presidential candidate Bruce Babbitt; TV newsman Sam Donaldson; rock music producer David Krebs; and Congressman Fred (``Gopher'') Grandy of Iowa. Among the questions he asked are: How do the media present politics? Are the media liberal or conservative? How do different TV talk shows treat politicians and celebrities? The answers are worth pondering. Among Sherman's conclusions: Ronald Reagan and Jane Fonda are alike in highhandedly insisting that their individual, limited visions encompass the ``essence of the grander truth.'' The book is instructive reading for concerned citizens; required reading for people in politics. Photos not seen by PW. (Apr.)