A "top-level" meeting of reps from MPAA signatory companies adjourned after 90 minutes yesterday, "without reaching any decision to rescind or revise the controversial ban on awards season screeners," says the Hollywood Reporter here.

"But various compromise solutions are now on the table, and further discussions are expected, it says, and, "There was a willingness to compromise from all parties".

The report also said a 'source' commented, "Everybody was hoping to find a way to (resume the use of screeners). The question is, how do you get them into the right hands? Nobody has an interest in letting them get out to everybody's relative."

"The ban has been a publicity debacle for the MPAA as hundreds of filmmaking professionals have lent their signatures to open letters issued by the IFP and a directors group headed by Robert Altman," said the story. "The British Academy of Film and Television Arts, AFMA and the WGA have also protested the ban on behalf of their members."

MPAA boss Jack Valenti even came face to face with several of those protesting the ban when he attended a private screening that the Coen brothers hosted in Manhattan last week for their current studio release, 'Intolerable Cruelty,' adds the report.

"At the screening's afterparty held at the Manhattan restaurant Gabriel's, he was confronted by a string of high-profile guests arguing against the ban - among them 'Lost In Translation' writer-director Sofia Coppola and 'Cruelty' star George Clooney."

Rumours that Valenti will shortly announce his retirement to spend more time with his family are vicious and without foundation.

- p2pnet.net

I thought Clooney was an advocate of banning anything that had to do with Piracy. oh except where HIS bottom line is then I guess he'll risk it

Clooney's bottom line won't be affected either way. This screener ban would purportedly hurt the indie films that might not be seen otherwise. Clooney makes big, high profile films.

jack valenti has no family left. he outlived them all and credited his longevity to satan.

captdunsel haha very good.

remember the story of the picture of Dorian Gray? Just imagine how bad Valenti's picture at home must look.

This screener fiasco is ludicrous. Are they saying they cant trust even the industry insiders?

Most industries can be considered simple and blind. When they run out of things to consume they consume themselves