Dixie Chicks documentary to clash with elections

New Dixie Chicks documentary Shut Up and Sing is set to send shockwaves through the American political arena as its planned release date is just before the November US elections.

The highly-charged film refers to the widespread backlash of fans of US President George W Bush against singer Natalie Maines, after her 2003 statement that the band were "ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas".

Shut Up And Sing, which has been picked up by movie giants the Weinstein Co for worldwide distribution, charts the staggering reaction against the band, who were subjected to death threats and boycotts as a result of their views.

Harvey Weinstein says: "I am extremely proud to be associated with this film because it's not only an outstanding and creative piece of work, but it also exposes our responsibility as Americans to confront our fundamental right to freedom of speech."