DISNEY - DISNEY ACCUSE MOORE OF PR STUNT

Movie giants DISNEY have accused controversial director MICHAEL MOORE of using the firm's ban on his controversial film FAHRENHEIT 9/11 to stir up publicity.

The STUPID WHITE MEN author announced yesterday (05MAY04) on his website that Disney had barred MIRAMAX from distributing the film, which includes criticisms of American President GEORGE W BUSH.

Moore referred to an article in the NEW YORK TIMES, which alleged Disney was receiving tax breaks from Florida Governor and Bush's brother JEB BUSH.

Disney's Chief Executive MICHAEL EISNER labelled Moore's actions "a PR stunt", claiming the director and author is trying to gain press attention before his film debuts at the CANNES FILM FESTIVAL, which starts on Wednesday (12MAY04).

Eisner refuted claims the Disney group do not receive such benefits from the state government, explaining, "None of that was ever discussed. It is totally not true."

A Disney spokesman says, "We advised both Moore's agent and Miramax in May of 2003 that the film would not be distributed. That decision stands."