We at Rooftop Films would like to draw attention to an upcoming project by Rooftop friends Carl Deal & Tia Lessin.
Their film “Citizen Koch,” looks at the outsized influence that wealthy individuals and corporate interests have in our democracy in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Citizens United case.
The film was greenlit by public television last year and even premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, only to be censored due to billionaire David Koch’s donations to PBS and his position on the board of one powerful PBS affiliate. ITVS, the public agency that funds and curates independent documentaries, withdrew its financial support and its broadcast partnership for “Citizen Koch” to avoid offending David Koch.
Because of this, the film lost $150,000 in funding and millions of viewers were denied the chance to witness its premiere on public television.
In spite of the film’s censorship, a 30-day Kickstarter campaign was launched yesterday with a goal to raise $75,000. This sum represents only half of the public monies withdrawn from “Citizen Koch”- but this is the critical amount needed to ready the film for distribution.
Carl Deal & Tia Lessin insist that “We aren’t giving in to censorship. We’re working hard to bring “Citizen Koch” to you and we need your help to do it.” Stand by these brave filmmakers, fight censorship, and make a difference by donating on Kickstarter and spreading the word.
Please show your support for independent filmmaking by making a pledge to “Citizen Koch” today. For more information on “Citizen Koch,” or to watch the trailer check out the film’s Facebook page and Website. To read more about David Koch’s influence on public television click here.