THE CAPITALIZING OF ‘AMERIKA’

If “Amerika” sells to Soviet TV--they’ll be checking out the 14 1/2-hour maxi-series at the MIP-TV Convention in Cannes April 21-27--the Russkies cannot mess with it without ABC’s approval. Bill Vitale, director of international TV sales for ABC Distribution Co., said “Amerika” is being sold at full-length to foreigners and sales contracts prohibit cuts, though dubbing is allowed.

Eighteen territories--including Australia, France and Italy and smaller ones such as Iceland, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bahrain and Dubai--have already bought rights, and Vitale said the show is eliciting “keen interest in a lot of other countries.” It could easily end up selling to some 40 foreign buyers, he said, thanks mostly to the massive hype and controversy it generated.

Vitale wouldn’t get specific on dollars, but said: “Worldwide sales are well into the seven figures. We’re very pleased with the prices we’ve been getting.”