LOS ANGELES - The History Channel, where old soldiers never die -- they just air in repeats -- is getting help from some contemporary stars. Morgan Freeman, Benjamin Bratt, Danny Glover and Rosario Dawson are among the A-list celebrities reading letters, speeches and text from famous and not-so famous Americans in "The People Speak," a documentary coming this fall that celebrates America's interpretation of democracy.

Matt Damon and Marisa Tomei, above, two of the contributors, were on hand Wednesday to talk with critics about their love affair with a project that was rejected by Fox TV 10 years ago and later died during development at HBO.

"I'm an actor. I'm used to being rejected," said Damon, who also serves as an executive producer. The film also features intimate musical performances by Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan of some Woody Guthrie classics.

In addition, the History Channel gave critics a sneak peek at "World War II in HD," a winter documentary showcasing color film shot over four years of battle. Gary Sinise narrates, with voiceovers from Rob Lowe, Steve Zahn and Amy Smart.

NEAL JUSTIN