The growing trend of importing foreign entertainment shows has stirred mixed reactions among people. Some argue that it is better if a country can distribute foreign media products, while other parties advocate for more screen time dedicated for domestic movies. In this essay, I will elaborate on why the former approach appeals to some, while the latter remains cherished by others, before presenting my take on the matter.
From one perspective, importing and playing media products from other countries can serve as a medium for cultural exchange. When one has access to films and TV programmes broadcast globally, one might learn about new cultures and broaden one’s perspective of the world. It is exemplified, for instance, in the case of South Korean drama, which promotes varying local cultures and history to the Western audience. This attempt, in turn, tells the truth of some common misconceptions in their society, further reversing the prejudice and judgment. Another advantage is higher production quality in foreign movies, which can inspire local filmmakers to adopt more innovative storytelling. An example of the perks of this gesture can be seen in the production of the Indonesian movie Murderer in Four Acts, which borrows the structure of the Western revenge thriller template.
Be that as it may, certain individuals are in favour of producing and distributing local programmes for the purpose of enhancing the industry and maintaining longstanding traditions. If the audience is fed with imported movies and television shows, domestic products may struggle to compete and gain viewers. This can give rise to an underdeveloped creative industry, which further prompts fewer employment opportunities in the corresponding field. Apart from that, one might grow distaste for one’s own culture as local uniqueness is overshadowed by global trends embedded in imported entertainment. It is shown in the case of, for example, the audience in Indonesia, whose preference for Korean drama is said to prevail over local programmes. Hence, the preventive action for this is to prioritise broadcasting domestic media products.
My own view is that, while the local industry will certainly have advantages for drawing inspiration from foreign movies, I am still convinced that giving more attention to local media products will sustain the local creative industry. This boils down to the fact that broadcasting more local movies and shows equates to giving more proportion for media products to develop. At the same time, the audience can show appreciation so that directors and other parties involved can continually improve.
To conclude, despite the benefits offered in the name of imported entertainment shows, I am inclined to the notion that making local films and programmes will contribute to the growth of the domestic industry. Given the statement above, the government can invest more in local creative industry by dedicating more broadcast time to local media products.