Networking y patrimonio audiovisual en festivales de cine iberoamericanos

Film festivals attract a diverse audience interested in the films being screened and the parallel activities offered. Additionally, these events perform various functions that support the development of the audiovisual sector. Therefore, the objective of this research is to examine the processes of networking and safeguardingof audiovisual heritage at some of the major Ibero-American film festivals. To achieve this, a qualitative approach was employed through semi-structure interviews with film journalists covering these events, as well as consultations with festival organizers. Among the main findings, it was discovered that festivals implicitly performseveral functions that UNESCO identifies as part of the protection of audiovisual heritage. Furthermore, they promote various forms of interaction among different stakeholders in local and international audiovisual industries. Consequently, it is concluded that festivals facilitate in-person networking during the event itself,while virtual networking extends beyond the festival to maintain the relationships established or to collaborate on joint projects. These projects include initiatives related to the preservation of audiovisual heritage.