Audiovisual production in Brazil: Will its public support survive the new political scenario?

Abstract

This article discusses public funding of the development of Brazilian audiovisual production and the main agents involved in its conception and implementation. Public policies impacted the total revenue of US$ 4.5 billion of the national audiovisual industry in 2014, representing approximately 0.45% of the national GDP and surpassing the percentage participation of sectors such as the pharmaceutical industry. This article addresses the question of whether this innovative Brazilian policy for promoting audiovisual production can be considered to be wellconsolidated, with a well-structured active production chain. It discusses how the policy originated, how it became institutionalized, and the contribution provided by those who played a key role in its development and implementation (2009–2016). The analysis draws on theories relating to the political economy of communication. The research methods and techniques adopted include analysis of data from Brazilian government agencies, exhibitors, professional and trade-union associations, and media groups.