Social Media’s Impact on the Creative Process: A Case Study on Independent Filmmakers in Brazil during the 2000’s

This research is the investigation of the relationship between social media and the creative processes of filmmakers in Brazil. The research focuses on the nuanced impacts and the boundaries that social media may impost on creative individuals. Through case studies of three Brazilian filmmakers—Anderson Bardot, Karen Suzane, and Luiz Fernando Carvalho—this research explores how social media, although a powerful tool for exposure may also be a potential disruptor of the creative process. Utilizing a decolonial framework, the research dives into the personal relationship each filmmaker has with social media, highlighting the strategies they employ to balance their online presence with their need to preserve their creativity. To explore this topic, a culturally vibrant country like Brazil serves as the lens to analyze how social media has become a phenomenon that offers a platform for creative outputs. However, it raises questions about the creative processes behind these outputs and the specific precautions filmmakers may take to ensure their creativity is not compromised. The case studies reveal that while social media can facilitate promotion and engagement, it requires filmmakers to set boundaries to preserve their creative processes. Two of the filmmakers, Anderson Bardot and Karen Suzane, both use social media strategically, although in different ways. Bardot focuses on promotion, sharing his film festival accolades and aspects of his creative process. Suzane, on the other hand, shares more authentic behind-the-scenes moments. Both filmmakers recognize the need to limit their time online to prevent exhaustion and maintain their creativity. Their intentional and specific approach to social media highlights the nuanced relationships between creativity and digital platforms. Luiz Fernando Carvalho presents a contrasting case, choosing to abstain from social media to prioritize in-person interactions and avoid online distractions. Carvalho’s commitment to his creative process underscores his belief in the value of human connection and authenticity. His decision not to use social media is a testament to the possibility of thriving creatively without relying on digital platforms, although it also reflects a privilege that not all filmmakers may have. The research concludes that while social media can be beneficial for filmmakers and allow them to create community and engagement, it also requires a level of balance and intentionality to protect a creative process. The case studies show that the relationship between social media and creativity is complex and multifaceted. Filmmakers must navigate the pressures and distractions of being online, setting boundaries to ensure their creative processes are nurtured offline. This conclusion points to the larger question of how filmmakers’ intentional time online may be reflective of the dangers that social media may have on creativity. In conclusion, this research emphasizes the importance of intentional and mindful use of social media for creative individuals. While digital platforms can serve as powerful tools for creative outputs, they also pose risks that must be managed to maintain the integrity of the creative process. The research calls for a balanced approach to social media, recognizing its potential benefits while addressing the challenges it presents to creativity and self-expression.