Gov't partners with USC on film showcase

Inspired by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's vision for "smart power diplomacy," the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and USC's School of Cinematic Arts are partnering to form the American Film Showcase. Building on the success of the American Documentary Showcase, the program aims to reinforce the Department of State's use of film as a diplomatic tool to bring people together.By featuring American films that show fictionalized interpretations of contemporary issues, the showcase's goal is to create dialogue and encourage insights into American culture while exploring global issues. American filmmakers and experts will be sent overseas to present films and conduct classes on filmmaking, animation, digital technology and emerging media. The Intl. Documentary Assn. will help the Department of State and USC select the films. Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com