<i>L.I.E.</i> gets trimmed for R-rated video release (3930)

After a loud and public battle with the Motion Picture Association of America over the NC-17 rating on the controversial, acclaimed drama L.I.E., distributor Lot 47 has agreed to trim one minute and 23 seconds from the film for an R-rated video release. (The uncut version will also be available on video.) New Yorker Video will distribute the trimmed version to Blockbuster and Hollywood video stores, which refuse to carry NC-17 titles. "New Yorker did nothing without our approval," said Lot 47 president Mark Lipsky. "[Cowriter-director] Michael Cuesta approved the cut as well."