TCFF board member and popular "Borat" director Larry Charles will debut his new film, "Religulous," at the 2008 Traverse City Film Festival. The title of the film comes from the combination of the words "religion" and "ridiculous" and is a satirical look at the concept of organized religion, as seen through the eyes of comedian and talk-show host Bill Maher. Maher travels to religious sites around the world interviewing experts and religious leaders in places as varied as the Vatican, Jerusalem and Salt Lake City.

"Religulous" promo poster

Like "Borat," "Religulous" promises to be a hilarious, provocative and - let's face it - controversial film that is certain to thrill some audiences and (unavoidably, given the subject matter) offend others. Either way, as with "Borat," moviegoers at the Traverse City Film Festival will have the chance to see it first.