In the historic and vibrant town of Cuenca, Spain, the ninth edition of Conecta Fiction & Entertainment gathered industry giants to illuminate the future of content in the film and streaming sectors. But lurking behind the scenes, an unspoken political figure cast a shadow that couldn鈥檛 be ignored: U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Business Focus of Conecta
Forefronted by industry stalwarts such as Warner Bros. Discovery, The Walt Disney Co., and France鈥檚 Gaumont Television, Conecta 2025 was a beacon for the future of entertainment. Deliberations at the conference centered on groundbreaking content and strategic production plans, aiming to solidify the European identity in a globalized market. Yet, as the halls of the conference bustled with enthusiasm, whispers of potential policy shifts a world away began to seep through.
Trump鈥檚 Unseen Presence
Even in absence, Trump鈥檚 potential policy changes became a silent participant in Cuenca. One conference session delved into diversity and inclusion, a heated topic due to Trump鈥檚 previous stands. The discussion, launched by Marina Mathieu from Coalition M.E.D.I.A., underscored the importance of maintaining these values amidst international tensions.
The French Fortitude
Gaumont鈥檚 Isabelle Degeorges lauded France鈥檚 regulatory practices that safeguard European cultural production. However, she acknowledged the looming uncertainty: 鈥淲e will always fight for this鈥 especially with this new administration in the U.S., because they don鈥檛 care.鈥 Her words resonated with a determination to protect France鈥檚 cultural gems, even from transatlantic threats.
International Concerns on Production Tariffs
Portugal and Spain鈥檚 film commissions cautiously addressed the potential repercussions of Trump鈥檚 America-First rhetoric. Ana Marqu茅s from Portugal emphasized a continued focus on local strategies, while Spain鈥檚 Victor Lamadrid expressed optimism, hoping that proposed protective measures would not undermine international collaboration. 鈥淪ometimes, measures they want to protect鈥re worse for U.S. companies,鈥 he shared.
Opportunities from Turmoil
NBCUniversal Telemundo鈥檚 Sergio Mendoza highlighted a silver lining in the industry鈥檚 clouded atmosphere. Political uncertainty might open novel avenues for storytelling, offering a canvas for narratives that can bridge divisions and foster understanding. As stated in The Hollywood Reporter, this perspective may yield unexpected creative dividends.
Though no direct actions have been implemented, Trump鈥檚 unseen hand has influenced discussions, highlighting an industry on edge, yet ready to seize new opportunities.