Smithsonian In Popular Culture

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    Format: 2024
    Format: 2024
     

    Displaying 127 records

     
     SIGMA Force Series Year: Creator/Author: James Rollins  Medium: NovelGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: Adventures of SIGMA Force, elite fictional division of U.S. Department of Defense, which combines military skills with specialist knowledge. Thus far series includes eleven novels that explore the world of counter-terrorism. Relationship to the Smithsonian: After first novel, they access their headquarters through basement of the Smithsonian Castle.   
     
     BonesYear: Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: MysterySynopsis: Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan and Special Agent Seeley Booth, along with their team of specialists, solve mysterious crimes when FBI cases come into their lab at the Jeffersonian.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The main forensic lab at the Jeffersonian is based on the Division of Physical Anthropology at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History.  
     
     Covert AffairsYear: Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ActionSynopsis: The adventures of CIA field agent Annie Walker and her work for the Domestic Protection Division.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Annie Walker’s cover job is that she works in Acquisitions at the Smithsonian Museum.  
     
     Hidden Expedition: Smithsonian Hope Diamond; Hidden Expedition: Smithsonian CastleYear: Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: Action, PuzzleSynopsis: Hidden object gamesRelationship to the Smithsonian: Smithsonian Hope Diamond: Players take on the role of a new recruit for the Hidden Expedition League of Preservation (H.E.L.P.) team who is tasked with finding missing shards of the Hope Diamond before a gang of thieves do. Smithsonian Castle: The adventure takes us back to the Smithsonian to uncover a mystery that dates all the way back to the founding of the institution. The player will have to dig deep into the Smithsonian's history to find the answers to the unusual and mysterious events of the present.  
     
     The Innocents Abroad Year: 1869Creator/Author: Mark Twain  Medium: NovelGenre: Drama, TravelogueSynopsis: Travelogue of US tourists on trip to Egypt which Twain actually took. Relationship to the Smithsonian: One traveler that Twain parodies is a Smithsonian collector.   
     
     The Professor’s House Year: 1925Creator/Author: Willa Cather  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Professor Godfrey St. Peter story about student Tom Outland’s archeological site. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Tried to interest the Smithsonian in the site, but objects get sold away.   
     
     Wing of Fame: A Novel Based on the Life of James Smithson Year: 1934Creator/Author: Louise Wallace Hackney  Medium: NovelGenre: Drama, RomanceSynopsis: Fictionalized account loosely based on life of James Smithson in France. Relationship to the Smithsonian: James Smithson was founding donor of the Smithsonian.  
     
     The Man Who Loved Children Year: 1940Creator/Author: Christina Stead  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Story of the Pollit family and their dysfunctional relationships. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Novel discusses Smithsonian characters and the Institution's Pacific expedition.   
     
     The Day the Earth Stood Still Year: 1951Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: Klaatu, an alien from a planet 250 million miles away comes to Earth to warn its people that future of their planet is at stake. The film is set in Washington, DC. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The opening scene of the film includes a spaceship flying over the Smithsonian Castle. People are filmed standing in front of the Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building and the National Museum of Natural History watching the spaceship land on the Ellipse.  
     
     Earth vs. The Flying SaucersYear: 1956Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: Released one year before the launch of Sputnik, this film depicts UFOs invading Earth on a quest of world domination. Two scientists, a married couple, must work on missiles to help save Earth from flying saucers.Relationship to the Smithsonian: They filmed scenes that featured The Smithsonian Castle. The trailer included scenes of flying saucers flying through the towers of the Smithsonian Castle.  
     
     For Your Eyes Only; "The Hildebrand Rarity"Year: 1960Creator/Author: Ian Fleming Medium: NovelGenre: ActionSynopsis: In the short story “The Hildebrand Rarity,” (part of the novel For Your Eyes Only), the villainous American millionaire of the story, Milton Krest, reveals that he goes on his yacht to various locations in the world to retrieve exotic specimens for the Smithsonian so that he can write off the pleasure cruises on his taxes as scientific research on behalf of his foundation.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The prized fish, the Hildebrand Rarity, is going to be given to the Smithsonian  
     
     Get Smart Season 3, Episode 22 “Spy, Spy Birdie”Year: 1968Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Comedy, MysterySynopsis: Agents Maxwell Smart and 99 need to stop a criminal who invents a silent explosive.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Hope Diamond is mentioned in this line, “Ah yes, the world’s most valuable and deadly diamond.”  
     
     The French Lieutenant's Woman Year: 1969Creator/Author: John Fowles  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Sarah Woodruff, a disgraced woman, is abandoned by married French naval officer. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Charles Smithson is loosely based on the Smithsonian's founding donor, James Smithson.   
     
     Orville and WilburYear: 1972Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: The film depicts the early efforts of the Wright Brothers and exploring the dynamics of thier family life in Dayton, Ohio. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The film follows the hardships the brothers endure as they contest the establised "Science of the Smithsonian Society."  
     
     The Scooby Doo/Dynamutt Hour Season 1, Episode 16 “The Spirits of ‘76/The Prophet Profits” Year: 1976Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, Sci-FiSynopsis: Scooby-Doo, Fred, Wilma, Velma, and Shaggy head to Washington, DC to visit the Smithsonian. While there, they soon realize the Smithsonian is haunted by Benedict Arnold, Major André, and William Demont…or is it?Relationship to the Smithsonian: The gang gets locked up in a Smithsonian museum with the Spirits of ’76. They have to solve the mystery, eventually finding a tunnel to the US Mint.  
     
     The FrontYear: 1976Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: In 1953, a cashier poses as a writer for blacklisted talents to submit their work through, but the injustice around him pushes him to take a stand.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     The RescuersYear: 1977Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Animated, FamilySynopsis: An animated film where two heroic mice help save a kidnapped girl and the theft of world’s largest diamond.Relationship to the Smithsonian: At the end of the film, the diamond is sent to the Smithsonian “Institute.”  
     
     Lupin the 3rd Season 4, Episode 4 "Kekkon yubiwa wa noroi no wana"Year: 1979Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: AnimatedSynopsis: The Japanese animated series tells the story of master thief Lupin III and his cronies as they continue their globe-trotting exploits, with the stubborn Inspector Zenigata ever at their trail.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette's Hope Diamond has brought much misfortune on its possessors. The diamond is now safeguarded by a maximum security device. Fujiko provokes Lupin to steal that diamond, but as soon as he enters the "Smithsonian Museum" to steal, he too encounters misfortune.  
     
     CruisingYear: 1980Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: A police detective goes undercover in the underground S&M gay subculture of New York City to catch a serial killer who is preying on gay men.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     Spider-Man Episode 1, Season 16 "The Unfathomable Professor Gizmo"Year: 1981Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: AnimatedSynopsis: Professor Gizmo, a master criminal, devises a plan to use Spider-Man to attach an antenna to a sunken treasure ship, the El Conquistador, since only he can withstand the pressure at that depth. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Gizmo attempts to steal the Spirit of St. Louis from the Smithsonian to draw out Spider-Man. Spidey shows up to save the plane, but is blamed for the subsequent theft of it.  
     
     The French Lieutenant’s WomanYear: 1981Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: Based on a novel of the same name, film stars Anna and Mike are cast in a period piece drama that explores the relationship of Charles Smithson, a Victorian gentleman and paleontologist, and Sarah Woodruff. The lines of reality and fiction begin to blur when the actors begin an off-camera affair.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The role of Charles Smithson is loosely based on James Smithson, founding donor of the Smithsonian.  
     
     First Monday in OctoberYear: 1981Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: The first woman on the Supreme Court is a conservative who both debates and dates a liberal Justice.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed outside the Smithsonian Castle and Arts and Industries Building. The Rotunda of the Arts and Industries Building was used as a movie set.  
     
     Headhunter Year: 1984Creator/Author: Michael Slade  Medium: NovelGenre: ActionSynopsis: Detective Robert LeClercq must stop a killer on murder spree in city of Vancouver. Relationship to the Smithsonian: A character mentioned in the novel is a Smithsonian staff member.   
     
     Murder in the Smithsonian Year: 1985Creator/Author: Margaret Truman Daniel  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Historian Dr. Lewis Tunney uncovered an international art scandal, but then is murdered at a Smithsonian gala. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The novel is set at the Smithsonian.   
     
     MASK Season 1, Episode 53 "Patchwork Puzzle"Year: 1985Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: AnimatedSynopsis: Matt Trakker leads a special team of masked crime fighters with a fleet of hidden function vehicles known as M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armoured Strike Kommand) against Miles Mayhem and his criminal organization known as V.E.N.O.M. (Vicious Evil Network of Mayhem).Relationship to the Smithsonian: Nash "Goon" Gorey steals a patchwork quilt from the Smithsonian Institution under the noses of Scout master Hondo and scouts Scott and T-Bob. Then Mayhem and Rax return to grab a fireplace screen.  
     
     Trace Elements Year: 1986Creator/Author: Kathryn Lasky Knight  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Harvard astrophysicist Tom Jacobs is sent to do research in Nevada but is killed. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Jacobs' widow and son search for answers at the Smithsonian, National Science Foundation, National Geographic Society, etc.   
     
     A Perfect Spy Year: 1986Creator/Author: John LeCarre  Medium: NovelGenre: Action, SpySynopsis: Magnus Pym, a British spy, is missing. Has he defected? Has he been killed? Relationship to the Smithsonian: Settings include Langley Theater at the National Air and Space Museum.  
     
     ManhunterYear: 1986Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: HorrorSynopsis: FBI profiler Will Graham comes out of retirement to investigate a serial killer called the “tooth fairy.” He enlists the help of imprisoned serial hiller and cannibal, Dr. Hannibal Lecter, whom he captured.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The movie was not filmed at the Smithsonian, but it was set there.  
     
     The Silence of the Lambs Year: 1988Creator/Author: Thomas Harris  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: FBI Agent Clarice Starling works with notorious criminal Hannibal Lecter to capture serial killer Buffalo Bill. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Starling brings an insect to the National Museum of Natural History for teh staff to identify.   
     
     Foucault’s Pendulum Year: 1988Creator/Author: Umberto Eco  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Milanese friends invent the Knights Templar conspiracy as joke, but it becomes real. Relationship to the Smithsonian: A Foucault’s Pendulum used to be at the National Museum of American History, but it was removed a year before the book published.   
     
     The Golden Girls Season 3, Episode 24 “Mister Terrific”Year: 1988Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Four retired and previously married women live together in Miami. In this episode, Rose must persuade a kids’ TV show host not to kill himself after he is fired.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian is mentioned in this dialogue: Blanche: “Dorothy, what do you think I oughta do with my bed?” Dorothy: “Put it in the Smithsonian, Blanche. It’s got more miles on it than the Spirit of St. Louis!”  
     
     Working Girl Year: 1988Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: When a secretary's idea is stolen by her boss, she seizes an opportunity to steal it back by pretending she has her boss' job.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     Talking God Year: 1989Creator/Author: Tony Hillerman  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Navajo Tribal Police Lt. Joe Leaphorn & Officer Jim Chee work on cases of murder and graverobbing that intertwine. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The novel includes scenes at National Museum of Natural History, with Smithsonian artifacts and Smithsonian staff arrested.   
     
     The Golden Girls Season 5, Episode 6 “Dancing in the Dark”Year: 1989Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Four retired and previously married women live together in Miami. In this episode, Rose feels inferior to her boyfriend, Miles, a college professor.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian is mentioned in this dialogue: Dorothy: [after being persuaded to go out dancing] “Oh all right I’ll come. Ma, where are my dancing shoes?” Sophia: “In the Smithsonian, right next to Fred Astaire’s. How the hell should I know?”  
     
     This is America Charlie Brown Season 1, Episode 7 “The Smithsonian and the Presidency”Year: 1989Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, ComedySynopsis: The Peanuts gang visits the Smithsonian to learn about George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The gang visits the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History. Originally aired on CBS in 1989 as part of an eight part mini-series.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Peanuts gang at Smithsonian museums includes Snoopy with the Red Baron’s airplane, a lunar space module named after Charlie Brown and Snoopy; Lucy finds a cartoon of herself pulling that football away from you-know-who and asks, “How did we wind up there?”; and when Linus sees a big mouth, he tells Lucy, “We finally found something with a mouth bigger than yours!  
     
     Ghostbusters IIYear: 1989Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Action, ComedySynopsis: After saving New York City from a ghost attack, the Ghostbusters -- a team of spirit exterminators -- is disbanded for demolishing parts of the city during the battle. But when Ghostbuster Peter Venkman learns that spirits have taken an interest in his son, the men launch a rogue ghost-chasing mission.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Dana Barrett works as an art restorer at an art museum that was filmed at the National Museum of the American Indian--New York.  
     
     Chances AreYear: 1989Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: RomanceSynopsis: Corinne Jeffries loses her husband on their first anniversary. Years later her daughter makes a friend who turns out to be her husband reincarnated.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Corine Jeffries is a museum curator of the First Ladies Collection at the National Museum of American History. Several scenes were filmed with the First Ladies Collection. There are also several shots that show the exterior of the Smithsonian Castle and the Enid Haupt Garden.  
     
     Mortal Words Year: 1990Creator/Author: Kathryn Lasky Knight  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Calista Jacobs and her son return to solve the murder of a children's book author Norman Petrakis, with the help of Smithsonian archeologist Archie Baldwin.  Relationship to the Smithsonian: Smithsonian staffer, Archie Baldwin, plays a major role in helping to solve the mystery.   
     
     The Simpsons Season 2, Episode 37 “Mr. Lisa Goes to Washington”Year: 1991Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, ComedySynopsis: The Simpsons head to Washington, DC after Lisa wins a spot in the finals for a Reading Digest essay contest. While in DC, the family visits tourist spots, stay at the Watergate, and blow the whistle on a congressman involved in a bribe.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Simpsons family goes on a VIP tour of Washington, DC, which includes a trip to the National Air and Space Museum, where Bart plays around in the Spirit of St. Louis.  
     
     The Silence of the LambsYear: 1991Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: HorrorSynopsis: An Academy Award winning film where FBI Agent Clarice Starling investigates a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. She must turn to Hannibal Lecter – a serial killer known for eating his victims – to save a Congresswoman’s daughter.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The movie was not filmed at the Smithsonian, but it was set there. A Smithsonian entomologist identifies the moth found in the victims.  
     
     The India Exhibition: A Mystery at the Smithsonian Year: 1992Creator/Author: Richard Timothy Conroy  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Foreign Service Officer Henry Scruggs us loaned to Smithsonian to head SI foreign affairs office; he assists with exhibit on K. V. Chandra, Indian philosopher. Scruggs has relationship with designer Violet Strauss who disappears with an artifact. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Scruggs must find Strauss and the missing artifcat to save her as well as his career at the Smithsonian.  
     
     Mr. Smithson's Bones: A Mystery at the Smithsonian Year: 1993Creator/Author: Richard Timothy Conroy  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Foreign Service Officer Scruggs is still at SI and decides to find out who is buried in Smithson’s tomb.  Relationship to the Smithsonian: Mystery is set in the James Smithson crypt room in the SI Castle.   
     
     The X-Files Season 1, Episode 5 "The Jersey Devil"Year: 1993Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-FiSynopsis: The murder of a homeless man which is very similar in detail to a murder committed in 1947 leads Mulder and Scully to the legendary man-beast, the Jersey Devil.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Mulder decides to go to the Smithsonian for free time to relax after the incident with the Jersey Devil and Scully decides to go with him.  
     
     Old Ways in the New World Year: 1994Creator/Author: Richard Timothy Conroy  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Foreign Service Office Scruggs is again entangled in a mystery at the Smithsonian. As part of United States 1976 bicentennial celebration, Smithsonian visitors include ethnomusicologist from Aganga who is murdered. Scruggs must solve the crime. Relationship to the Smithsonian: This mystery is set at the Smithsonian with its staff playing major roles.   
     
     Ghost Singer Year: 1994Creator/Author: Ann Lee Walters  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Who murdered Smithsonian researchers? And what role did a box of Native American artifacts play in their demise? The museum's only hope lies in hands of Native American traditional healers. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The story takes place in ethnographic collections of Natural Museum of Natural History.   
     
     White Orchid Year: 1994Creator/Author: Linda Ladd  Medium: NovelGenre: RomanceSynopsis: In 1866, Stuart Delaney, an ex-Confederate soldier, is paid to go to India to bring back Anjelica Blake for an arranged marriage, but they fall in love. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Cassandra Delaney is a mentee of the first Smithsonian Secretary Joseph Henry.   
     
     Ship Fever Year: 1994Creator/Author: Andrea Barrett  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Short stories explore science and naturalists of the 19th century. The story intertwines historical figures with fictional characters to explore the triumphs and tribulations of field work. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Some of the short stories are set at the Smithsonian with discussion of its bird specimens.   
     
     Animated Hero Classics Season 2, Episode 1 "Alexander Graham Bell"Year: 1995Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: AnimatedSynopsis: The story of Alexander Graham Bell and his inventions.Relationship to the Smithsonian: "You have a gem of a great idea, if you can perfect it," Joseph Henry of the "Smithsonian Institute" tells Alexander Graham Bell when he presents his theory for the invention of the telephone.  
     
     The Nanny Season 3, Episode 3 “Dope Diamond”Year: 1995Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Nanny Fran Fine begins a fast romance with a doctor, but when the doctor steals a ring while he and Fran are shopping, she learns that he is not all that he seems to be.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The title of the episode a play on the Hope Diamond.  
     
     Batman ForeverYear: 1995Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: Batman faces off against two foes: District Attorney Harvey Dent, aka Two-Face, and the Riddler, a disgruntled ex-Wayne Enterprises inventor seeking revenge against his former employer by unleashing his brain-sucking weapon on Gotham City's residents. As the caped crusader also deals with tortured memories of his parents' murder, he has a new romance, with psychologist Chase MeridianRelationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY - the set of Riddler's party  
     
     Consider Her Way Year: 1996Creator/Author: Fran Vincent  Medium: NovelGenre: RomanceSynopsis: While on dinosaur dig in Montana, geology professor Marla Carter, deals with life, science, faith, and love. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Cover picture is a Smithsonian triceratops.   
     
     Esau Year: 1996Creator/Author: Philip Kerr  Medium: NovelGenre: ActionSynopsis: The discovery of Yeti skull in a forbidden Himalayan mountaintop sets mountaineer Jack Furness and his ex, scientist Stella Swift, to find the mysterious creature.   Relationship to the Smithsonian: Haven’t found SI connection yet.   
     
     Star Trek: First ContactYear: 1996Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the Enterprise must face a Borg threat to save the birth of the Federation.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Caption Picard mentions the Smithsonian in a line of dialogue.  
     
     Twenty Blue Devils Year: 1997Creator/Author: Aaron Elkins  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: The manager of Tahiti's Paradise Coffee Plantation is murdered. FBI agent Lau and forensic anthropologist Gideon Oliver investigate the crime. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Gideon Oliver has many connections to Smithsonian forensic anthropology program.   
     
     Seinfeld Season 9, Episode 6 "The Merv Griffin Show"Year: 1997Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Kramer finds the backdrop and furnishings from tv’s old Merv Griffin Show, sets it up in his apartment and begins “hosting” a talk show.  Relationship to the Smithsonian: Upon first discovering the set, Kramer declares, “This stuff belongs in the Smithsonian,” to which Jerry replies, “or at least the dumpster behind the Smithsonian.”  
     
     The X-Files Season 4, Episode 24 "Gethsemane"Year: 1997Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-FiSynopsis: Mulder fights to prove that a discovery frozen in the mountains of Canada is irrefutable evidence of alien life, but his quest for the truth only leads to more lies and an unthinkable conclusion.Relationship to the Smithsonian: A friend of Mulder's at the Smithsonian let's him know of the alien find and they set off to join the team and see it firsthand.  
     
     AmistadYear: 1997Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: Africans, stolen from their home, begin a mutiny aboard the slave ship Amistad traveling in 1839. They are taken captive and tired for murder. However, abolitionist lawyer, Roger Sherman Baldwin, defends them arguing they are citizens of a different country.Relationship to the Smithsonian: John Quincy Adams is shown sleeping through the congressional debate about James Smithson’s bequest.  
     
     The Smithsonian Institution: A Novel Year: 1998Creator/Author: Gore Vidal  Medium: NovelGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: In 1939, 13-year-old "T" is summoned to SI under mysterious circumstances. “T” helps Robert Oppenheimer solve nuclear fission and breaks the time barrier. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Entire novel set in the Smithsonian Castle.   
     
     Voyage of the Narwhal Year: 1998Creator/Author: Andrea Barrett  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Naturalist Erasmus Darwin Wells joins an Arctic voyage to look for an expedition crew that's been missing for 10 years. Rescuers need to be rescued by Native Americans, but do not treat rescuers with respect. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Based on the Robert Stein 1894 proposed Ellesmere Island rescue expedition. Scenes are set in Smithsonian Castle.   
     
     Big DaddyYear: 1999Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Sonny Koufax has spent his whole life avoiding responsibility. But when his girlfriend dumps him, he's got to find a way to prove he's ready to grow up. In a desperate effort, Sonny adopts 5-year-old Julian to impress her.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY; used as set of the Social Services building.  
     
     Letters from Yellowstone Year: 2000Creator/Author: Diane Smith  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: A. E. Bartram, a young woman studying botany, joins the 1898 Yellowstone expedition. Taken for a man from her letters, Bartram deals with other scientists and her evolving views on science and her life. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian sponsors the expedition to Yellowstone. Characters Dr. Philip Abner, Dr. William Gleick, and Dr. Roger Johnson come from the Smithsonian.   
     
     Code to Zero Year: 2000Creator/Author: Ken Follett  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: In 1958 Washington, DC, Dr. Claude Lucas, amnesiac, pieces together his life in a Cold War space race mystery. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Parts are set at the Smithsonian, especially in the old Aircraft Building where there are lectures on space fuels.   
     
     Blue Gold Year: 2000Creator/Author: Clive Cussler with Paul Kemprecos  Medium: NovelGenre: ActionSynopsis: Kurt Austin and Joe Zavala investigate the deaths of rare whales off the Mexican coast for a US marine agency. In their search, they find a California agribusiness tycoon trying to monopolize earth's fresh water reserves. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Partly set at National Air and Space Museum's Garber Storage Facility. Austen and Zavala use information about aircraft to help solve the mystery.   
     
     D.C. Season 1, Episode 4 "Blame"Year: 2000Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: DramaSynopsis: A group of young 20-somethings live together in Washington, D.C.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Finley gets a job at the Smithsonian after she upstages a tour guide with her knowledge about history.  
     
     Autumn in New YorkYear: 2000Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: Autumn in New York follows the exploits of Will Keane, a New York restaurateur, infamous verging-on-50 playboy, master of the no-commitment until he runs into an unexpected dead end when he meets Charlotte Fielding. Charlotte is half Will's age. It is a season long encounter that will shatter Will's preconceptsions. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     The West Wing Season 3, Episode 9 "The Women of Qumer"Year: 2001Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: DramaSynopsis: Inside the lives of staffers in the West Wing of the White House.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The content of a Smithsonian exhibit draws protest from a veteran's group.  
     
     Gossip Girl Season 1, Episode 18 “Much ‘I Do’ About Nothing”Year: 2001Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, RomanceSynopsis: In this episode of the series that shows the exploits of New York City’s young Upper East Siders, Lily van der Woodsen prepares for her wedding to Bart Bass. Though the ceremony is beautiful, the guests continue to plot against one another and try to close down the gossip that threatens to expose secrets. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The wedding of Lily van der Woodsen and Bart Bass, two of the parents on the show, was filmed at the Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum in New York City.  
     
     The Royal TenenbaumsYear: 2001Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Royal Tenenbaum and his wife Etheline had three children and then they separated. All three children are extraordinary --- all geniuses. Virtually all memory of the brilliance of the young Tenenbaums was subsequently erased by two decades of betrayal, failure, and disaster. "The Royal Tenenbaums" is the story of the family's sudden, unexpected reunion.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY; used as the set of the City Public Archives  
     
     Atlantis: The Lost EmpireYear: 2001Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Animated, FamilySynopsis: An animated film about a young historian named Milo Thatch and his quest to find the lost city of Atlantis. Thatch believes he has the key to find Atlantis. After assembling an expedition team to find the lost city, adventure begins.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The opening scene shows Milo’s museum, which is a drawing of the Smithsonian Castle.  
     
     Bones of the Earth Year: 2002Creator/Author: Michael Swanwick  Medium: NovelGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: After a  mysterious stranger, Harry Griffin, walks into his office, Richard Leyster, renowned paleontologist, goes time traveling, observing creatures he once unearthed. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Leyster is paleontologist at the Smithsonian.   
     
     The Smoky God; Or, A Voyage to the Inner World Year: 2002Creator/Author: Willis George Emerson  Medium: NovelGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: A novel presented as a true account of the 1908 adventures of Olaf Jansen, a Norwegian sailor who sailed through an entrance to Earth's interior at North Pole. For 2 years Jansen lived with inhabitants of underground colonies who were 12 feet tall and whose world was lit by a "smoky" central sun.  Relationship to the Smithsonian: All this documentation is purportedly to be deposited in the Smithsonian Institution   
     
     Analyze ThatYear: 2002Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Mobster Paul Vitti is released into Dr. Ben Sobol's care, where only more chaos ensues.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     The Bone Vault Year: 2003Creator/Author: Linda Fairstein  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibit Temple of Dendur has 12th c mummy replaced with a younger one. Romp through museums to solve. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Museum had amphorae on loan from Smithsonian. Trucks mistakenly picked up birds and shells that were to go to Smithsonian.   
     
     Capital Mysteries #3: The Skeleton in the Smithsonian Year: 2003Creator/Author: Ron Roy  Medium: NovelGenre: Mystery, ChildrenSynopsis: KC Corcoran and her friend Marshall Li stumble upon a mystery at the Smithsonian involving the Institution's founder James Smithson. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The story involves James Smithson's remains located in the Smithsonian Castle. When Marshall grows up, he wants to work with insects at Smithsonian.   
     
     The West Wing Season 5, Episode 96 “Shutdown”Year: 2003Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: DramaSynopsis: When the Speaker of the House holds the budget hostage, President Bartlet allows the government to be shut down.Relationship to the Smithsonian: A girl being interviewed on TV about the shutdown explains to the reporter that she and her family were in Washington to visit her Grandmother and see the Constitution. She states, “But the Smithsonian’s closed. Now we only get to see Grandma.” NOTE: The Constitution is located at the National Archives, not the Smithsonian.  
     
     How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days Year: 2003Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Romance, ComedySynopsis: Benjamin Barry is an advertising executive and ladies' man who, to win a big campaign, bets that he can make a woman fall in love with him in 10 days.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     Midtown Madness 3Year: 2003Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: ActionSynopsis: The player drives any of several different vehicles around open world maps modeled on real-life cities. Midtown Madness 3 recreates the cities of Paris and Washington, D.C. in the game.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Smithsonian museums are featured in the background.  
     
     National TreasureYear: 2004Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: After listening to family stories of treasure hidden by freemasons during the American Revolution, Ben Gates hunts for hidden world’s greatest treasure. With the help of an archivist and computer whiz, Gates must find the artifacts before treasure hunters sell it to the highest bidder.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Ben Gates donates some of the artifacts to the Smithsonian.  
     
     NCIS Season 3, Episode 4 "Silver War"Year: 2005Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, DramaSynopsis: The cases of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service's Washington, DC Major Case Response Team, led by special agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs.Relationship to the Smithsonian: A 140-year-old iron casket shows up at the Smithsonian Institution; it contains the body of a Marine Staff Sergeant on a UA, so Gibbs and company investigate. The team chase the clues, follow a map, and figure out the story.  
     
     Digging to America: A Novel Year: 2006Creator/Author: Anne Tyler  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Story of two couples, one American, the other Iranian-American, who adopt daughters from Korea. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Smithsonian is mentioned in these lines: "Why should they have to put on these ethnic demonstrations? Let the Donaldsons go to the Smithsonian for that."   
     
     Inside Man Year: 2006Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: A police detective, a bank robber, and a high-power broker enter high-stakes negotiations after the criminal's brilliant heist spirals into a hostage situation.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     Capital Mysteries #9: A Thief at the National Zoo Year: 2007Creator/Author: Ron Roy  Medium: NovelGenre: Mystery, ChildrenSynopsis: KC Corcoran and Marshall Li must solve mystery of who stole the tiger jewel from the National Zoo. Relationship to the Smithsonian: KC and Marshall volunteer at the National Zoo to work with tiger cubs.   
     
     Criminal Minds Season 2, Episode 14 "The Big Game"Year: 2007Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, ActionSynopsis: The slaughter of a wealthy couple just after a super bowl party puts the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit on the trail of two killers.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The BAU, minus Gideon who is doing some personal work at the Smithsonian, are having a rare social outing at a sports bar/club on Super Bowl night.  
     
     South Park Season 12, Episode 12 “About Last Night”Year: 2008Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, ComedySynopsis: The people of South Park deal with the results of the 2008 presidential election.Relationship to the Smithsonian: As members of the “Presidential Crime Syndicate,” President Obama and Senator McCain stage the election as a front for their planned heist of the Hope Diamond, where they hope to use the secret tunnel from the Oval Office to gain access to the National Museum of Natural History.  
     
     The Lost Treasure of the Grand Canyon Year: 2008Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ActionSynopsis: In this TV movie, a team of Smithsonian researchers are on expedition in the Grand Canyon when they discover an Aztec city. Their discovery is marred by the kidnapping of the expedition’s leader and his daughter, and the rest of the team much defeat evil spirits, including the serpent god, to save him.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The researchers are described as being Smithsonian scientists.  
     
     Get SmartYear: 2008Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Maxwell Smart, CONTROL Agent 86, is sent on his first assignment as a field agent to stop a terrorist group called KAOS with more experienced Agent 99.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Includes exterior shots of the Smithsonian. The headquarters of CONTROL are located inside of the National Museum of Natural History. The movie includes an interior scene of Max walking through the Rotunda of the National Museum of Natural History.  
     
     Bottle ShockYear: 2008Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Comedy, DramaSynopsis: In 1976, sommelier Steven Spurrier travels to Napa Valley, California to find wines for a contest called “Judgement of Paris.” The owner of a vineyard, Chateau Montelena, does not want to participate but his headstrong son has something else in mind.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The end of the movie explains the winning chardonnay was sent to be displayed at the National Museum of American History.  
     
     Fallout 3Year: 2008Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: ActionSynopsis: The main story takes place in the year 2277, where players take control of an inhabitant of Vault 101, one of several underground shelters created before the Great War to protect around 1,000 humans from the nuclear fallout, who is forced to venture out into the Capital Wasteland to find their father after he disappears from the Vault under mysterious circumstances. They find themselves seeking to complete their father's work while fighting against the Enclave, the corrupt remnants of the former U.S. Government that seeks to use it for their own purposes.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The game is set within a post-apocalyptic, open world environment that encompasses a scaled region consisting of the ruins of Washington, D.C., and much of the countryside to the north and west of it, referred to as the Capital Wasteland.  
     
     The Lost Symbol Year: 2009Creator/Author: Dan Brown  Medium: NovelGenre: Sci-FiSynopsis: Robert Langdon, Harvard symbologist, heads to Washington, DC, at the request of his mentor Peter Solomon, a 33rd degree Mason and head of Smithsonian Institution. Langdon realizes that his mentor has been kidnapped and must save him by discovering the Mason's Pyramid and their Lost Word. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian Museum Support Center is featured in novel.  Dr. Katherine Solomon, Peter Solomon's younger sister, works in a SI-sponsored lab where she  conducts experiments in Noetic Science. Peter Solomon says, "The Smithsonian was established to advance scientific knowledge. As secretary, I must take that charge seriously. I believe the experiments you've proposed have the potential to push the boundaries of science into uncharted territory."   
     
     The Selected Works of T.S. Spivet: A Novel Year: 2009Creator/Author: Reif Larsen  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Story of T.S. Spivet, a 12-year-old Montana boy who loves to map things. His geology map receives acclaim from the Smithsonian, who not knowing his age give him the Baird Award. Book follows his road trip to the event and lessons he learns. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian invites the title character to speak at the Institution. Baird Award is named for second Smithsonian Secretary and naturalist Spencer F. Baird.   
     
     The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate Year: 2009Creator/Author: Jacqueline Kelly  Medium: NovelGenre: Drama, ChildrenSynopsis: A Texas girl, Calpurnia, is more interested in natural history than domestic skills.  She studies with her grandfather, and they discover a new species of plant in 1900 in Texas, as she learns to balance her life. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Calpurnia and her grandfather send a picture of the plant to the Smithsonian for confirmation that it's a new species. Then they wait and wait and wait.   
     
     Julie and JuliaYear: 2009Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Blogger Julie Powell’s and chef Julia Child’s life stories intertwine while Powell attempts to cook all of the recipe’s in Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Julie Powell visits Julia Child’s kitchen at the National Museum Julie Powell visits Julia Child’s kitchen at the National Museum of American History and leaves a bar of butter to honor Child’s love of butter.  
     
     Night at the Museum: Battle of the SmithsonianYear: 2009Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: In the sequel to Night at the Museum, Security guard Larry Daley heads to Washington, DC to find artifacts from his museum accidentally sent to the Smithsonian Institution.Relationship to the Smithsonian: This is the first time SI is allowed it’s name to be in the title of a feature film. They filmed scenes at the Castle, NMNH, and NASM. Film uses SI collections.  
     
     Transformers: Revenge of the FallenYear: 2009Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: In this sequel to the blockbuster film Transformers, the Autobots once again fight the Decepticons in a battle for the universe.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. The Udvar-Hazy center’s SR-71 Blackbird was featured in the film as the Austobot names Jetfire.  
     
     Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the SmithsonianYear: 2009Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: ActionSynopsis: Mimicking the plot of the film of the same name, security officer Larry must retreive an ancient Egyptian tablet from the Smithsonian and defeat the evil and power-hungry Kahmunrah.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The story takes place at various Smithsonian museums.  
     
     The Spy Year: 2010Creator/Author: Clive Cussler and Justin Scott  Medium: NovelGenre: ActionSynopsis: In 1908 international tensions are on the rise. The US, UK, Germany, and Japan are each trying to build world’s greatest naval fleet, and spies from every country want to hinder progress of rivals. When when rogue spy is bent on undoing fleets for unknown reasons, Van Dorn private detective Isaac Bell must stop him before more people get harmed. Relationship to the Smithsonian: A Japanese spy uses the front that he is in the US as a curator to help catalog the Smithsonian's Freer Collection of Asian Art  
     
     Black Swan Year: 2010Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: DramaSynopsis: A committed dancer struggles to maintain her sanity after winning the lead role in a production of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake".Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     The Bowl is Already Broken: A Novel Year: 2011Creator/Author: Mary Kay Zuravleff  Medium: NovelGenre: DramaSynopsis: Promise Whittaker, acting director of the Museum of Asian Art, has to deal with large problems, including their manager's wish to move the museum's objects and reconfigure the space to allow for more food service Relationship to the Smithsonian: Museum of Asian Art is the Freer and Sackler Galleries. The author worked as an editor for Smithsonian Magazine.  Does not mention Smithsonian by name, but refers to the "Castle" and "Natural History."   
     
     Saturday Night Live Season 37, Episode 1 "Alec Baldwin/Radiohead"Year: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: In this Chanel commercial parody for the new perfume Red Flag, suitors flee when a narrator (Jon Hamm) reveals that the woman they're eyeing (Kristen Wiig) has lived in Las Vegas for 11 years and dated a club promoter.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Commerical parody filmed on the Second Floor Collector's Office of Alexander Hamilton US Customs House, home of NMIA-NY.  
     
     Person of Interest Season 1, Episode 6 "The Fix"Year: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, DramaSynopsis: Mr. Reese goes as the new driver of fixer Zoe Morgan in order to decide if she's a victim or perpetrator. When Zoe listens to a recording she isn't supposed to, she becomes the target of a pharmaceutical company.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Zoe attends a party filmed at Alexander Hamilton US Customs House, home of NMAI-NY  
     
     Storm WarYear: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, Sci-FiSynopsis: A series of freak weather occurrences around Washington D.C. reunites two estranged brothers who are the sons of a once prestigious climate scientist. One of them suspects their father is behind them and upon further investigation, they discover that all of their father's enemies are dead - victims of freak weather accidents. Relationship to the Smithsonian: The father lets loose a variety of diabolical weather weapons on the Smithsonian, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, and National Mall.  
     
     The Simpsons Season 22, Episode 20 “Homer Scissorhands”Year: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, ComedySynopsis: Homer learns that he is a hairstyling genius, while Lisa becomes suspicious of Millhouse’s new girlfriend.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Couch gag at the beginning of the episode has the couch on display at the Smithsonian Museum. The Simpsons dress as cat-burglers and attempt to steal back their couch, passing various exhibits along the way.  
     
     ArthurYear: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ComedySynopsis: Alcoholic billionaire playboy Arthur Bach must marry a woman he does not love, or he will be cut off from his $750,000,000 fortune. But when Arthur falls in love with a poor waitress, he must decide if he wants to choose love or money.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     The Adjustment Bureau Year: 2011Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Romance, Sci-FiSynopsis: The affair between a politician and a contemporary dancer is affected by mysterious forces keeping the lovers apart.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY  
     
     Specimen Song: A Montana Mystery Year: 2012Creator/Author: Peter Bowen  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Cattle inspector and sometimes lawman Gabriel Du Pré travels from Montana to Washington, DC, to perform fiddle music from his Métis Indian heritage in the Smithsonian festival. Du Pré is entangled in solving mysterious death of a Cree Indian woman. When he returns to Montana the murders follow, each with the same "MO." Relationship to the Smithsonian: Du Pré travels to DC to perform in the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Character Paul Chase is a Smithsonian employee.  Du Pré travels with a curator from Smithsonian along a Canadian fur-trade route.   
     
     Parks and Recreation Season 5, Episode 1 “Ms. Knope Goes to Washington” Year: 2012Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Leslie and Andy leave Pawnee to visit Ben and April in Washington, DC. While there, they tour the National Mall, pay visits to the Smithsonian, and meet Capitol Hill notables, including Senator John McCain.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Leslie and Ben tour the National Museum of American History (NMAH), and April and Andy make out in front of the trains in NMAH’s exhibit America on the Move.  
     
     The Amazing Spider-ManYear: 2012Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: Teenager Peter Parker AKA Spider-Man, finds a mysterious briefcase that was his father's, he pursues a quest to solve his parents' disappearance. His search takes him to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors, setting him on a collision course with Connors' alter ego, the Lizard.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Filmed at NMAI NY; used as the set of the police department  
     
     The Big Bang Theory Season 7, Episode 6 "The Romance Resonance"Year: 2013Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: ComedySynopsis: Sheldon creates a formula to synthesize a new super-heavy element.Relationship to the Smithsonian: As Sheldon basks in his anticipated new fame, he goes over his personal memorabilia to donate to the Smithsonian.  
     
     The Young and Prodigious T.S. SpivetYear: 2013Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: Comedy, Drama, FamilySynopsis: Based on a book called The Selected Works of T.S. Spivet: A Novel, it’s the story of young T.S. Spivet, a cartography prodigy, who is asked by the Smithsonian Institution to give a speech about his work. Unbeknownst to his parents, he takes off from Montana to deliver the speech.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The Smithsonian asks T.S. Spivet to speak at one of its museums.  
     
     Criminal Minds Season 10, Episode 10 "Amelia Porter"Year: 2014Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Drama, ActionSynopsis: The FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit is called to Salt Lake City, UT to investigage a suspicious triple homicide.Relationship to the Smithsonian: At the end of the episode, Aaron Hogner tells a woman about the Moongate Garden at the Smithsonian Castle at sunset.   
     
     Matador Season 1, Episode 2 "The Naked and the Dead"Year: 2014Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, DramaSynopsis: DEA agent Tony Bravo is recruited by the CIA to participate in tryouts for the LA Riot in order to spy on the team's corrupt owner.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The codes stolen from Gideon Khan's tablet allows the team to track a hired assassin known as "The Apothecary" via Galan's satellite network. Tony must get closer to the target-- Smithsonian employee Margot Atkins--while also juggling his new teammates, his family, and most of all: the truth.  
     
     Captain American: The Winter SoldierYear: 2014Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, struggles to adapt to life in the modern world. However, when a powerful enemy arises, Captain America, along with S.H.I.E.L.D. member Falcon and Black Widow, are called into action to stop him.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Scenes were filmed outside the Smithsonian buildings on the National Mall. They also shot scenes inside the National Air and Space Museum’s Milestones of Flight gallery and the area surrounding it.  
     
     Gotham Season 1, Episode 20 "Under the Knife"Year: 2015Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, DramaSynopsis: Gordon and Bullock continue to investigate the Ogre, who begins to make his move on someone close to Gordon. Meanwhile, Bruce and Selina team up to expose a corrupt Wayne Enterprises employee and Nygma comes to Kristin Kringle's defense.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Exterior of Alexander Hamilton US Customs House, home of NMAI-NY, used as Gotham City Police Department.  
     
     Royal SealsYear: 2015Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: DramaSynopsis: A curator at the "Smithsonian Institute," Paul Taylor is made aware of the value and historical significance of Royal Seals that have been recovered after having been stolen by an American soldier, 50 years earlier, during the Korean War. Mystery and intrigue follows the path of these priceless artifacts return to their rightful location in Korea.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The main character works at the "Smithsonian Institute."  
     
     Sharknado 3: Oh, Hell No!Year: 2015Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, Sci-FiSynopsis: A monstrous tornado unleashes ravenous sharks from Washington, DC all the way down to Orlando, FL.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Ian Ziering’s character runs through the Haupt Garden.  
     
     BrainDead Season 1, Episode 1 "The Insanity Principle: How Extremism in Politics Is Threatening Democracy in the 21st Century"Year: 2016Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Comedy, Drama, HorrorSynopsis: When Laurel returns to Washington, D.C., to work for her brother, Sen. Luke Healy, she discovers that budgetary disagreements have halted the government, and mysterious bugs are consuming the brains of Congress members and Capitol Hill staffers.Relationship to the Smithsonian: A short Government shutdown takes place, which causes the Smithsonian to close its operations.  
     
     The Lost Order (Cotton Malone Series #12) Year: 2017Creator/Author: Steve Berry  Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Ex-Justice Dept.  agent Cotton Malone is back to solve treasure mystery of the Knights of the Golden Circle, a US clandestine organization that hid stolen money and precious metals in caches across US. He and 21st century Smithsonian are linked to it through ancestor, Confederate spy, Angus “Cotton” Adams. Relationship to the Smithsonian: Parts of the novel are set at the Smithsonian. The novel opens in 1865 Smithsonian Castle as it is engulfed in flames.  21st century scenes revolve around National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of American History, the Castle, and Smithsonian tunnels, with staff as major players in other scenes across the country.   
     
     Madam Secretary Season 5, Episode 14 "Something Better"Year: 2019Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: DramaSynopsis: A political drama which looks into the life of Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord as she tries to balance work with family.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Russell Jackson, the President's Chief of Staff and fan of pandas, barges into Secretary McCord's conference room and demands she do something about China taking back the two pandas at the National Zoo.  
     
     Tom Clancy's The Divison 2Year: 2019Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: ActionSynopsis: It is set in a near-future Washington, D.C. in the aftermath of a genetically engineered virus known as "Green Poison" being released, and follows an agent of the Strategic Homeland Division as they try to rebuild the city.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Portions of the game are set on the National Mall with the Smithsonian museums in the background  
     
     Follow MeYear: 2020Creator/Author: Kathleen Barber Medium: NovelGenre: MysterySynopsis: Instagram influencer Audrey Miller discovers how dangerous social media can be when she’s terrorized by a stalker after moving to a new city. He's been following her for years but now she is nearby.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Audrey Miller moves from Manhattan to Washington DC to become social media manager at a Smithsonian art museum.  
     
     Martha's Vineyard Mysteries Season 1, Episode 2 "Riddled with Deceit"Year: 2020Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: MysterySynopsis: Ex-cop J.W. Jackson searches for answers after a mysterious and deadly boat explosion on Martha's Vineyard.Relationship to the Smithsonian: A jewel theft occurs involving the Lakshmi Emeralds, which are mounted on a sole broach worth $5 million and are being donated to the Smithsonian for the world to enjoy.  
     
     Wonder Woman 1984Year: 2020Creator/Author: Medium: FilmGenre: ActionSynopsis: Diana Prince works curating ancient artifacts at the National Museum of Natural History, and only performing heroic acts as Wonder Woman in disquise. Diana finds herself up against Maxwell Lord and the Cheetah, a villainess who possesses superhuman strength and agilityRelationship to the Smithsonian: Prince works for the National Museum of Natural History; a lot of the movie takes place in the “gem lab”; they have a benefit event in the “museum." Diana and Steve Trevor walk around the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture garden and into the National Air and Space Museum to see the planes.  
     
     Criminal Case: Supernatural InvestigationsYear: 2020Creator/Author: Medium: Video GameGenre: Action, Spy, PuzzleSynopsis: A hidden objects game that features the Criminal Case team solving crimes involving supernatural elements.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The "Smithsonian Museum"is featured in Case #24: Scarab to Death, in which the Criminal Case team visits the Smithsonian and interacts with its curators to find the Eye of Sparron artifact.  
     
     Ann Beltran Year: 2021Creator/Author: Love on the Mall: A Tale of the National Mall  Medium: NovelGenre: Romance, Young AdultSynopsis: Estela the anthropologist, a young woman of the Roaring 20’s, and architect Nikos, struggling to put the Great War and Spanish flu behind him. Are they soulmates? Perhaps. Yet for 20 years the romance never leaves the National Mall. What keeps them apart lies within.   Relationship to the Smithsonian: Includes scenes from the US National Museum’s Department of Anthropology and the National Mall, location of the Smithsonian.   
     
     The Lost SymbolYear: 2021Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Mystery, ActionSynopsis: This follows the early adventures of famed Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon, who finds himself pulled into a series of deadly puzzles when his mentor is kidnapped. The CIA forces him onto a task force where he uncovers a chilling conspiracy.Relationship to the Smithsonian: The adventure begins when Langdon’s mentor, Smithsonian head Peter Solomon, is kidnapped, his mutilated hand displayed as a clue for Langdon to embark on a search for a hidden portal somewhere in Washington, D.C.  
     
     Animaniacs Season 2, Episode 1 "Backwards Pinky"Year: 2021Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Animated, ComedySynopsis: An updated version of the 1990s animated series featuring a trio of wacky characters causing mayhem on the Warner Bros. studio lot, as well as Pinky and the Brain, two laboratory mice who perpetually plan to take over the world.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Pinky and the Brain conspire to steal the Hope Diamond from the Smithsonian Institution.  
     
     The Falcon and the Winter Soldier Season 1, Episode 1 and Episode 6Year: 2021Creator/Author: Medium: TV ProgramGenre: Action, DramaSynopsis: Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Sam Wilson/Falcon and Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier team up in a global adventure that tests their abilities – and their patience.Relationship to the Smithsonian: Scenes take place in and around the National Air and Space Museum’s Milestones of Flight gallery, including a fictional gallery devoted to the history and legacy of Captain America.