Production Services particular way

Dear friends,

I'm a Brazilian producer living in Rio, my hometown, but I also have considerable knowledge of this huge country called Brazil. Tom Jobim, a poet and musician, better known for his world-famous song "Girl from Ipanema", used to say that Brazil is a country made for professionals, not for amateurs. Based on my 30 years in this profession, I've agreed with this funny statement, since we have cultural aspects (good and bad) that reinforce the need of a professional advisor to any project expecting to succeed in such a different environment.

Although most of the time companies do hire good "Fixers" (I don't quite like the word), very often they insist on seeing the country through their "lenses" and perspective. Ideally, local producers should be part of the team and participate as much as possible on the project, including research, recce, etc. so their contribution would not only be more effective, but more committed and involved, with a more pleasant atmosphere of teamwork to make things happen.

Obviously, often the pressure of tight budgets and deadlines don't help much, but every time these aspects are understood and considered, great stories are told - on and off camera.

If you're planning to film in Brazil, let me know!

Cheers.

JG