As the organization responsible for keeping the nation secure and resilient from a variety of threats - terrorist attacks, cyber attacks, natural disasters, and others - the Department of Homeland Security is a frequent subject of films, television, books, and other creative media. From U.S. Secret Service agents protecting the President, to U.S. Coast Guard frigates combating pirates on the high seas and CBP officers blocking terrorists from entering the country, our component agencies often serve as the backdrop for exciting stories and compelling human narratives.
For years, artists from across the entertainment industry have sought the help of DHS to gain a better understanding of our Homeland Security mission. Our goal is an accurate portrayal of the men and women of the Department of Homeland Security, and the skill, innovation, daring, and commitment to public service that defines them.
If you are an author, director, producer, screenwriter or other member of the entertainment industry working on a project that involves Homeland Security, the Department may be able to help you. The Office of Multimedia, Motion Pictures and Television is here to give greater authenticity to scripts, stories, video games and other products in development. Often this means answering questions, debunking myths, or arranging visits to DHS facilities to interact with the people working to keep America safe.
The Office of Multimedia assists projects in development such as motion pictures, television, books, and other multimedia projects, through:
- providing background information on the Department's mission, areas of responsibility, and processes;
- connecting productions with subject matter experts from the field;
- granting access to DHS facilities and personnel;
- providing assistance with the use of DHS' seal, insignia, uniforms, or other Visual Identities of the Department.
Securing the nation is challenging, thrilling, and vital. To better convey that reality, DHS is ready for a constructive dialog with the creative community.
DHS Multimedia Agreements
The following is an example of a standard DHS Multimedia Agreement signed between the Department and a production company (or network) prior to production of a documentary for television or film. Similar agreements are used for fictional television, motion picture, or written word.
For more formation, visit our process page for working with non-news entertainment productions.
Homeland Security Story Arcs
In the Significant Cases archive you'll find retellings of major events in recent U.S. history that DHS has been involved with. Told in a narrative manner, these pieces can serve as a guide for writers interested in the process by which the Department detects, responds to, investigates, and recovers from major high-profile cases such as terrorist attacks, catastrophic storms, organized drug cartels, and more.
How the Department Mobilizes for Action
Already know what type of story you're interested in telling? The What DHS Does tool highlights which of the Department's component agencies and offices take leading roles in certain plot scenarios.
E-mail: DHSfilmandTV@hq.dhs.gov.