While controversy follows Oliver Stone around like a stray puppy, on this one occasion, he is in the clear. Keeping good on his promise, the World Trade Center director is donating 10% of the film’s opening weekend gross to 9/11 causes. The total? A whopping 2.6 million.
According to NY Daily News, the producers of the emotionally grueling, affecting movie are forking over $1.3 million to the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation. On top of that charitable donation, another $1.3 million will be evenly distributed to three 9/11 charities.
The WTC Memorial Foundation has raised $132 million to date, with an aim of raising $300 million. The Port Authority, which owned the trade center, and the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation will cover the remainder of the costs.
There was originally some complaints over Stone’s generosity—protestors said he should donate more money, and they wanted PSA’s before the film—but the storm has settled and he should get some credit here. After the backlash of Alexander, he turned out a quality movie and showed his altruistic side. Way to go, Ollie.
