Michael T George in Paraguay – English Version

I’m Michael T George. For 45 years I have worked as a professional in financial development, marketing and distribution of screen content in the international market–the last 38 years with MTG Media, the company I founded in 1985.

Am from California orginially, but have mostly lived in Hong Kong and Malaysia for the most recent 20 years.  I am in Asuncion until November 30, when I return to Montevideo for three more months.

Now, semi-retired I came to Paraguay to get new perspectives on life and in both entertainment and educational media.  Here is what I have observed thus far.

Very little long-form entertainment (feature films, telenovelas) seem to be produced here.  I compare and contrast Paraguay with Austria and Belgium.  Austria could meet all of its entertainment content needs from Germany.  Belgium could meets its needs via French-language fare from neighboring France and Dutch-language programs from The Netherlands to the north.  And, both do import a lot of foreign programs.

However, both Austrians and Belgians have made it clear that they want to the unique qualities and accents of their countries portrayed on screen–and are willing to allocate substantial tax dollars to achieving this cultural benefit.  Their governments have provided investment and susidies to producers, but have also helped their producers develop their filmmaking bona fides, participate in international co-productions that advanced the international visibility of their national cultures and have had a positive impact on tourism and commerce.

I do not know if Paraguay is doing anything to emulate Austria and Belgium.  I saw this as an outsider, an observer: Paraguay has a unique and special culture.  No other country in the world was overtaken by a colonial power, and yet maintained the primacy or co-primacy of its native language.  Unlike its neighbors–whose cultural influences are principally European–the dominant cultural influence is native (Guarnari) and Mestizo.  Paraguay has a unique voice–something special to contribute to the world’s cultural conversation.  It has stories to tell.

Will these stories be shown to Paraguayan audiences, and shared with the world?  Only if there is the will to do so.  The advocates must form alliances among their ranks and offer a coordinated voice in soliciting both public support and governmental resources.

At face value, it seems like a major investment, but it is not as much as one might think?  Creating awareness of the New Paraguayan Cinema can be created through social media.  An emphasis on getting Paraguayan content in film festivals is simply arranged via organizations such as Film Freeway.  But, first and foremost, must be the will to have the Paraguayan voice promoted in Paraguay and championed in foreign lands.

I have no insight into Paraguayan politics.  Maybe, I am missing major factors in how things are done.  However, I see promising possibilities for Paraguayan content internationally.  I have further thoughts on this.  Do you want to hear them?  If so, email me at mtgeorge53@gmail.com