Eddie Vedder, Josh Brolin help open Atlanta Film Festival

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Eddie Vedder, Josh Brolin help open Atlanta Film Festival

Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder and acclaimed actor Josh Brolin helped kick off the Atlanta Film Festival. They appeared at a forum after the screening of "The People Speak," a film based on the writings of historian and author Howard Zinn.

Rocker Eddie Vedder, of Pearl Jam, signs autographs following the screening of "The People Speak," which premiered on opening night of the 2009 Atlanta Film Festival, at the Rialto Theatre.

Actor Josh Brolin, who won acclaim for his recent performances in 'W' and 'Milk,' laughs at an audience question following the screening of "The People Speak."

Atlanta actress Jasmine Guy, who has starred on stage, TV and in movies, answers an audience question. Guy made her directoral debut in Atlanta last year at 14th Street Playhouse with "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf."

Actor Michael Ealy was among several celebrities, including Vedder, Brolin and Guy, who read letters and memoirs of people who spoke up for their rights in the documentary 'The People Speak.'

Participating in the opening night forum were, left to right, producer Anthony Argove, actor Josh Brolin, actor Michael Ealy, Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, musician Rich Robinson, who co-founded the Black Crowes with brother Chris, and actress Jasmine Guy, who grew up in Atlanta.

Rocker Eddie Vedder, of Pearl Jam, answers questions from the audience. "One thing about this film, and seeing it tonight, you can't help but be inspired by these people who fought and died for their rights," Vedder said.

Film producers Chris Moore and Anthony Argove listen as author Howard Zinn (center), answers an audience question. "The People Speak" is based on Zinn's writings.

Historian, author and playwright Howard Zinn listens to an audience question. The film based on his writings kicked off the Atlanta Film Festival.

Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder signs autographs following the screening of "The People Speak" at the Rialto.

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Rocker Eddie Vedder, of Pearl Jam, signs autographs following the screening of "The People Speak," which premiered on opening night of the 2009 Atlanta Film Festival, at the Rialto Theatre.

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