US Rep welcomes "Lincoln" concession on accuracy

The Associated Press, Friday, February 8, 2013, 11:43am (PST)

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A Congressman who saw a flaw in the movie "Lincoln" says he is pleased the screenwriter has conceded an inaccuracy in its portrayal of an 1865 vote on slavery.

U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, a Democrat who represents eastern Connecticut, said Friday he is still hoping that a correction can be made before the film is released on DVD.

Screenwriter Tony Kushner said in a statement released Friday it was not accurate to show two Connecticut congressmen voting against the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery.

But Kushner said his changes adhered to widely accepted standards for the creation of historical drama. He said he wanted to clarify the historical reality that the amendment passed by a very narrow margin.

"Lincoln," which leads the Oscars with 12 nominations, stars Daniel Day-Lewis as the former president.