Co-production panel: Alliances are relevant to cut costs and keep part of the IP in the context of an economic downturn

In the context of globalization, with an audience used to consuming programs from all over the world and with the contraction of the market on the horizon, co-production of local content with an international vocation is the most appropriate path. Reducing or sharing costs, putting together synergies, and keeping a part of the IP is a common goal.

This is one of the takeaways of the panel “Trends and investment in international co-production” on the last day of Content Americas with the participation of Sheila Aguirre, EVP of Co-production and Distribution of Latin America, Fremantle; Christian Gabela, Senior VP, Gaumont; Javier Méndez, Director of Content, The Mediapro Studio; Sergio Pizzolante, President of Secuoya Studios Commercial & Distribution, and Angela Colla, Director of International Business, Globo.

Gabela noted that it is going to be very important to find new ways to finance production, to retain the IP; while Pizzolante pointed out that in the case of retaining the IP, it is important to be clear that it is a long-term bet.

Pizzolante also said that when selecting a country or countries to produce, it must have —in addition to making sense of history— incentives for production or other advantages. Countries with conflictive political situations or inflation are going to be less attractive.

Mexico is a highly desired destination, due to the size of its market, and the almost certainty that the productions developed there guarantees that the content travels to other markets. “It is the gateway to the United States,” said Javier Méndez.

Gabela mentioned that for more than a year Gaumont has been focused on large territories, such as Mexico and Brazil. “I think that the economic contraction is felt more in small countries. We are also producing in Colombia.”

These contents, in addition to being quality stories, must also include talents that people recognize, and have the appropriate packaging, commented Pizzolante. He added that for AVODs, brands will be relevant.

The panelists represent large production houses, with international recognition, equipped with branches and distribution divisions in other countries. All this results in a more competitive use of resources.

Javier Méndez pointed out this is the moment of opportunity for films since there is a demand by platforms and movies are supposed to be cheaper than that series. “In general, the platforms will choose fewer productions, but they will always prefer those that engage,” he said.

Méndez added that they are always listening to their distribution team to understand the trends and preferences of the audience. This is another aspect when choosing the stories. Colla pointed out that being connected to society is very important since the stories must be tuned with current social processes. “The stories need to be relevant to the country of origin, but also connect with different markets. Good stories connect well,” he said.