SICKO tickets sold out, scalped for 40 bucks.

http://movies.yahoo.com/mv/news/ap/20070624/118271472000.html

Michael Moore's health care documentary "Sicko" got a head-start on its nationwide debut Friday with an early opening at one New York City theater, where it took in $70,000 for the weekend.

"Sicko" also had sold-out sneak previews Saturday night at 43 other theaters around the country, where tickets were so in demand they were being scalped for as much as $40 each, said Harvey Weinstein, co-chairman of the Weinstein Co., which is releasing "Sicko" along with Lionsgate.

The early screenings were intended to get interest focused on the movie itself, rather than publicity over a U.S. Treasury Department investigation of Moore's trip to Cuba for the film to get medical care for ailing Sept. 11 rescue workers.

When notified of the investigation in May, the filmmakers worried the government might try to seize the film or impede its release, Weinstein said.

"It's trying to get people talking about the movie, rather than the idea of the government trying to shut down the movie," Weinstein said. "It's saying to the government, `Hey, this movie is out there being appreciated by people. Think twice before you try to confiscate or take any legal action.'"

They actually sent ushers in to help direct people to any available seat.

To Take It Anymore" moment!