“We need to simplify the regulatory instruments in order to create maximum creative freedom, and we will do this as far as is possible without harming local content and culture,” said Minister of Communications Gilad Erdan at Keshet (Channel 2) Media Group’s INTV Innovative TV Conference that took place this week in Jerusalem.
Erdan said, “Today, we are exporters of content, and we enjoy high-quality original productions. We are exposed to groundbreaking formats that tell the Israeli narrative from the many fresh perspectives of Israeli producers and directors. The more we succeed abroad, the stronger we will become, and the more able to provide financial support, and remain central. We must ensure the continuation of local creativity.”
Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, who also participated in the conference, said that “We intend to create tax incentives in collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office in order to bring international productions to Jerusalem and to Israel. We understand that there is a great opportunity before us, and I believe that this conference will realize this opportunity in the best possible way for all of us.”
President Shimon Peres: “Israel stands today at a strategic crossroads, and it has everything that is necessary to become an international hub of television production.”
One hundred senior television executives from around the world participated in the conference. The conference opened with a one-on-one conversation between Keshet CEO Avi Nir and the conference’s guest of honor, NBC Entertainment Chairman Bob Greenblatt.
TBS and TNT SVP of Unscripted Development David Eilenberg, said: “It is difficult to make people want to develop something unscripted. Our culture is more experimental, and Israel is an experimental place.”
According to Eilenberg, “We are working very hard in Unscripted and we are working at it on our two channels. This is much more than innovation. This is the way today’s young people look at the world around us, and it is also very big business. This business is undergoing a transformation in the wake of globalization.
“Two years ago, it was predicted that 90% of the global formats would come from Britain, the US and Holland. Britain now produces half of the format, and the US and Holland produce the other half. “Survivor” is now in its 27th season, “American Idol” is beginning its 13th, and “Dancing with the Stars” is in its 17th season. This creates a lot of airtime that is limited, and it helps various businesses survive. There is a new experiment that is not happening. On cable there is a lot of experimentation, including documentaries.”
BET Networks SVP and Executive Creative Director Kendrick Reid said: “We are all brands, not everyone wants to think so, but that’s the situation. Each of us has a particular perspective and qualities that distinguish us from each other. Every one of us is capable of attaining innovation and transformation. I am talking about the inspiration that leads to innovation. If you are original, or at least trying to be, then you too can innovate. This holds true for everyone - what your brand is, how people will remember you, what people will think of when they think of you, how you sound, how you move, and of course your art - all these are your brand.”
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 6, 2013
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