Filmmakers fear Smithsonian’s TV deal

WASHINGTON – A television deal between the Smithsonian Institution and Showtime Networks has alarmed some leading independent filmmakers and research groups, who worry they will have less access to the Smithsonian’s collections.

As part of the agreement, the newly created Smithsonian Networks will by December launch at least 40 hours of programming through an on-demand cable channel that will rely on Smithsonian materials and curators for films, including documentaries.

The agreement allows Smithsonian Networks to consider proposed commercial projects for its own use before they can be presented to other networks, such as PBS or the History Channel. If filmmakers or producers seeking Smithsonian materials don’t want to do business with the new network they could find such access denied.

“The idea that a filmmaker would be forced to enter into any sort of acquisition deal simply in exchange for accessing critical content – and at the Smithsonian no less – is frankly ludicrous,” said James Moll, who won an Academy Award for his documentary feature “The Last Days,” in 1998.

“History’s just been made for sale to an inside deal,” said Ken Burns, the Emmy-winning producer of the documentaries “Baseball” and “The Civil War.”

The Smithsonian declined to provide financial details of the agreement, citing contract confidentiality. But spokeswoman Linda St. Thomas said “The Smithsonian spends no money.”

St. Thomas said money raised through the venture will be used for upkeep of exhibits, public programs, and other projects. Smithsonian officials recently told Congress they need about $94 million a year to take care of a backlog of repairs.

The agreement does not restrict the use of Smithsonian collections for news or public affairs programs – or in cases where the Smithsonian’s participation was only a small part of the overall program, officials said. Since March 9, when the deal was announced, 24 of 26 filmmakers’ requests for access have been granted.