Networking y patrimonio audiovisual en festivales de cine iberoamericanos

Overview

This study examines the dual functions of Ibero-American film festivals in facilitating professional networking and supporting audiovisual heritage preservation. The research focuses on how festivals operate as institutional mechanisms within the audiovisual sector, examining both the explicit organizational structures and implicit functions that align with international heritage protection frameworks.

Methods and approach

The research employed qualitative methodology utilizing semi-structured interviews with film journalists covering major Ibero-American festivals and consultations with festival organizers. This approach enabled systematic examination of networking processes and heritage safeguarding mechanisms operating within festival contexts.

Results

Analysis revealed that major Ibero-American film festivals implicitly perform multiple functions consistent with UNESCO's audiovisual heritage protection mandate. The festivals facilitate diverse forms of stakeholder interaction across local and international audiovisual industries. Networking operates through two distinct temporal modalities: synchronous in-person interactions during the festival event and asynchronous virtual networking extending beyond the festival period. Virtual networking mechanisms sustain professional relationships and enable collaborative projects, including those specifically directed toward audiovisual heritage preservation.

Implications

Ibero-American film festivals function as institutional nodes within audiovisual sector infrastructure, performing heritage protection roles beyond their primary exhibition function. These events generate measurable professional and technical outcomes through structured networking, contributing to sector development and cultural preservation objectives. The identification of implicit heritage functions suggests festivals operate as de facto heritage institutions within the audiovisual industry ecosystem.