We normally don’t post about politics on this site, but when the candidate is a cute, furry creature that brought smiles to many people and who became a little local celebrity, we’ll make an exception. Some of you may remember Hank, the Maine Coon cat from Springfield, Virginia, who “ran for office” a few years ago. While the campaign began as sort of a joke, Hank for Senate became a non-partisan movement that inspired people to discuss issues that mattered to them and to get out and vote. The campaign, which included mock “attack” ads from the “competition,” attracted international attention. And while some people may of course find the whole affair silly, the fun and funny campaign was also a unique way to introduce kids to politics.
Now, just in time for our next national election, there is a movie out to celebrate the late, great Hank (Hank passed away a year ago). The documentary Wild About Hank premieres in Fairfax on Sunday, August 14, 2016, and the community is invited to the free screening, with a suggestion donation of cat or dog food to benefit the Humane Society of Fairfax County’s pet pantry. See details in the press notice below.
With election day quickly approaching this November 2016, many voters are in need of some comedic relief during this competitive political season. Luckily, Wild About Hank, a new intriguing political documentary film, has come to the rescue with its Virginia premiere at Cinema Arts Theatre in Fairfax, Virginia on Sunday, August 14 at 6:45PM.
Wild About Hank tells the story of Hank the cat’s renowned race for the Virginia U.S. Senate seat in 2012, where he competed against Democrat (and current Vice Presidential nominee) Tim Kaine and Republican George Allen. Though the Hank for Senate campaign began as satire, the political world was turned inside-out as Hank’s candidacy became a serious endeavor, inspiring thousands of Democratic, Republican, and Independent voters to believe in Hank and to ultimately get out and vote — for a cat.
Directed and produced by filmmaker Emma Kouguell, Wild About Hank stars Hank the cat, his campaign team and supporters, and includes a special appearance by Virginia governor and 2012 U.S. Senate nominee George Allen.
Wild About Hank‘s Northern Virginia premiere will be followed with a director and cast Q&A. The event is free with a suggested donation of one can of cat or dog food for the Humane Society of Fairfax County’s pet pantry. See the film’s trailer and find more information on the website.
Emma Kouguell is a Virginia documentary filmmaker with a love for storytelling and animals, especially cats. She has created award-winning films and content for a number of outlets, including Maryland Public Television, WETA Television, the Humane Society of the United States, the Hillwood Museum, and the National Science Foundation. Emma is an adjunct instructor and MFA Film graduate of American University.
Photo (c) 2012 Dented Lens Photography
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