Argentina’s film industry is facing a major threat as newly elected president Javier Milei aims to fulfill his promise of cutting state spending by proposing to eliminate the country’s national film institute (INCAA) and its film schools (ENERC). This move has sparked an international protest led by renowned figures in the global film community.
Over 300 directors, producers, actors, and critics, including Academy Award winners Pedro Almodóvar and Alejandro González Iñárritu, have signed a communiqué condemning Milei’s proposal. Other notable signees of the protest include Aki Kaurismäki, the Dardenne Brothers, Gael García Bernal, Diego Luna, Isabelle Huppert, Olivier Assayas, and Kelly Reichardt, among others.
The coalition Cine Argentino Unido, formed by film director associations, emphasized the significant role of state institutions in regulating and promoting film activity in Argentina. They highlighted the industry’s contribution to job creation, professional training, and international co-productions, stressing the impact of public policies and the Film Law in sustaining the industry.
The statement from the coalition warned that the proposed bill would have severe and irreversible consequences on the country’s culture, national sovereignty, and the thriving film industry which generates employment, exports content, and attracts foreign investments.
The international outcry against Milei’s plan reflects the global support for Argentina’s film industry and its cultural significance. As the situation unfolds, the fate of the film institute and the broader impact on the industry remain subjects of concern and debate.
