Hank Williams film, discussion panel comes to New York

The New School, in conjunction with Oxford American Magazine, will present a free screening on June 20 of "The Last Ride," the new film about the mysterious final days of Williams, who died at 29 in a mysterious death. Following the screening, a panel will discuss Williams and his place in American music. No tickets or reservations required.

The movie begins a one-week exclusive engagement June 22 in the Cinema Village Theater, 22 East 12th St, to be followed by a national showcase theatrical release. Starring Henry Thomas, Jesse James and Kaley Cuoco, with Fred Dalton Thompson, "The Last " has been described by Oxford American Magazine editor, Mark Smirnoff as, "A hypnotic romp about what is possibly country music's most tantalizing true story."

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Harry Thomason, director of "The Last Ride," director/producer of TV series, including "Designing Women," mini-series such as "The Blue and the Grey" and director of events including both presidential inaugurals of President William Clinton. Also appearing will be Hank Williams' daughter, Jett Williams, singer/songwriter with four songs on the film track and the award winning author of, "Ain't Nothin' As Sweet As My Baby: The Story of Hank Williams' Lost Daughter" plus one of the film producers, Benjy Gaither, son of the Gospel legends, Bill and Gloria Gaither and creator of "The Last Ride" sound track/album. Other panelists will be announced later.

The movie's soundtrack, to be released by Curb Records on June 19, contains some of the best-known Williams songs as well as new material written specifically for the film. Performers include Jett Williams, Michael English, The Isaacs, the late Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings.