Amid the vibrant world of television and film, Catalonia's audiovisual sector is drawing significant attention. At the Series Mania Forum, this region is not only showcasing its achievements but also emphasizing its robust infrastructure, creative capabilities, and financial support systems. Through collaborations and innovative funding models, Catalonia aims to enhance its global competitiveness in series production. This piece explores the initiatives driving the region's success and highlights two anticipated releases: "Puberty" and "Quiet". The article delves into the role of key organizations, funding opportunities, and international partnerships that are propelling Catalan productions onto the world stage.
Exploring Catalonia’s Vibrant Series Landscape
In the heart of spring, the Series Mania Forum in Lille, France, serves as a platform for Catalonia's burgeoning audiovisual industry. Joan Ruiz from Catalan Films highlights the importance of the Catalan Institute for Cultural Companies (ICEC) in nurturing local talent through substantial financial backing. A notable initiative includes the High-End TV Production Fund, offering up to €1.5 million for projects with budgets exceeding €4 million, provided they primarily use the Catalan language. This fund also welcomes international collaborations, exemplified by the co-production "Puberty", which features Belgian partners and is distributed globally by Beta Film.
"Quiet," another thrilling addition to Catalonia's lineup, premiered on March 24 on regional broadcaster 3CAT. Based on real-life events during Barcelona's 2020 lockdown, it delves into themes of evil and societal challenges. Bernat Elías, global production director at The Mediapro Studio, underscores the unique atmosphere recreated for the series, capturing the eerie silence of an empty city. Both "Puberty" and "Quiet" demonstrate the region's commitment to high-quality storytelling, supported by institutions like ICEC and tax incentives.
Miriam Porté and Oriol Maymó, producers of "Puberty," express gratitude for ICEC's selective grants, equating them to those for feature films. They hope national bodies will soon follow suit, enabling more independent series development. Pio Vernis, 3CAT's audiovisual business director, emphasizes the broadcaster's mission to blend impactful narratives with commercial viability, supporting around 70-80 projects annually, including premium content.
Reflections on Catalonia’s Global Aspirations
The growth of Catalonia's audiovisual sector reflects a broader trend towards regional industries gaining international recognition. The strategic use of public funds and collaborative efforts showcases how localized initiatives can foster global competitiveness. As we witness the rise of series like "Puberty" and "Quiet," it becomes evident that authentic storytelling, combined with financial and institutional support, can transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries. This inspiring model encourages other regions to invest in their creative sectors, proving that public-private partnerships can lead to groundbreaking artistic achievements.