Fleiss movie given new title

USA Networks executives say the heightened sensitivity to matters of TV decency has nothing to do with it. Still, it’s hard not to wonder about the timing of the network’s Thursday announcement that its coming film on Hollywood madam Heidi Fleiss is getting a new title.

The film, originally called “Going Down: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss,” is now titled “Call Me: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss.”

The story remains the same, but with media watchdogs on the prowl about tastelessness on the airwaves and cable lines, to say nothing of Congress making noises about targeting standards on cable TV, it was probably prudent for USA not to press its chances.

“It’s common for titles to change,” said a USA spokeswoman. The film premieres March 29.

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-- Greg Braxton