Los Angeles - Until now, most people have had their brush with the American Film Institute exactly once each year. But Americans are about to see a lot more of AFI, at least if its leaders have their way. But attacks from conservative critics have left the NEA fighting for its life and small arts organizations scurrying for other sources of support. Last year the grant-making federal agency trimmed its staff by almost 50 percent, underwent a major restructuring and braced for steep congressional funding cuts. In recent years, museums and public-radio stations have opened retail stores to raise revenue and public awareness.
Some critics argue that such strategies undermined the traditional role of non-profit institutions.
Even some within AFI concede that Darwinian economics could spell extinction for smaller, less savvy arts groups. Vivian Sobchack, an associate dean at UCLA and AFI board member, noted that colleges and non-profit organizations have a much harder time now than during the 1960s, when federal money flowed more freely. Good Intentions AFI has its roots in Great Society idealism. Initial funds were provided by the NEA, the Motion Picture Association of America and the Ford Foundation. Over the years, AFI has become a leading educator of film industry professionals.