Some features of small audio-visual production in Argentina

Abstract

In this paper, small entrepreneurs, single-person firms and independent workers
involved in audiovisual production are characterized. This characterization includes
age, training, and aspects of their participation in the labor market. From a review of
the existing bibliography, premises are formulated and then contrasted with the results
of a survey of these productive units. The main conclusions are: (i) Respondents have
a broad educational background. (ii) This training is combined with a diversified insertion
in the labor market (this can be seen in the variety of roles they assume in film,
TV or advertising production). (iii) At the same time, a part of the respondents undertake
other work activities. (iv) The way in which the Argentine audiovisual production
system works is a central element to explain why some of the people have a relatively
precarious and unstable work insertion. (v) The functioning of this labor market promotes
the search for a broad education at the same time that people are impelled to
diversify their relationship with the market, assuming diverse roles in productions that
include film, TV, advertising and new screens.