Challenges and Successes in the Industry Through the Eyes of a Producer
We conducted an enjoyable interview with Mustafa Topçu, who has dedicated years to Turkey's television and media industry. He shared his experiences in the industry, compared Turkey's media perception with its international counterparts, and discussed current developments and future expectations in the sector. Here are sincere insights into the world of television and the media industry from the perspective of one of Turkey's prominent figures.
-HELLO, MR. MUSTAFA. WELCOME. CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF? HOW DID YOUR INTEREST IN THE MEDIA INDUSTRY BEGIN, AND WHAT FACTORS LED YOU TO WORK IN THIS FIELD?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: Hello, thank you. I'm Mustafa Topçu, the general coordinator of Zera Media. Everything started with my interest in the media and television world around the age of 15-16. Since my father retired from TRT, television and radio were always part of our household. I received education at the Radio Television Anatolian Technical High School in Ankara. I was trained both in school and through hands-on experience. I also worked on various projects abroad, establishing a solid presence in the industry.
- DESPITE NOT RECEIVING AWARDS IN TURKEY, YOU'VE MENTIONED ACHIEVING SUCCESS ABROAD. WHAT ARE THE REASONS BEHIND THESE DISTINCT SUCCESSES?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: I believe there's a difference in perception between Turkey and the international scene. We tried to stand out globally by adopting a different style in Turkish cinema. Our success abroad stems from creating works at international standards and having a unique perspective.
- WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EDUCATION AND PRACTICE IN THE INDUSTRY?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: The media and television industry is a field based on practical knowledge. There's a significant difference between knowledge gained in the field and technical knowledge. Interns often come in with excitement, but they need to experience the practical challenges in the industry. Everything here is based on practice, and most of what is learned is gained through experience.
- HOW HAVE WORKING CONDITIONS AND STANDARDS IN THE INDUSTRY CHANGED OVER TIME?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: In recent years, working conditions have changed significantly. Previously, there was a habit of working long hours at an intense pace, but now there are more regular working hours and flexibility on digital sets. Working standards have improved, creating a healthier working environment in the industry.
- WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE REASONS BEHIND THE POPULARITY OF TURKISH SERIES ABROAD?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: Turkish series stand out internationally with stories that emphasize family structure, emotions, and human-centered narratives. Since it's challenging to find examples of this kind of family structure worldwide, Turkish series attract attention on the international stage.
- WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THE FUTURE OF THE FILM AND TELEVISION INDUSTRY?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: Turkish cinema is gaining more recognition and achieving impressive works abroad. However, those who want to work in the industry should know foreign languages, understand the world, and constantly improve themselves. The new generation should be individuals who can produce and use technology, possessing analytical intelligence.
- CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE PROJECTS YOU ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: Currently, we are working on a children's series called "Code Name Swallow" for TRT. This project includes a story that teaches young people about technology and environmental values. We also produce content for digital platforms and continue to contribute to the industry with the projects we write.
- WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WHO WANT TO ENTER THE INDUSTRY?
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: My advice to those starting out is to learn a foreign language, follow global projects, and continuously improve themselves. They should develop a habit of reading and enhance their analytical intelligence in the industry. This is an important step on the road to success.
- THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THIS ENJOYABLE INTERVIEW.
MUSTAFA TOPÇU: Thank you for having me as your guest.
We had the opportunity to listen to the colorful journey of Turkey's media industry through the eyes of an experienced professional. Despite the challenges in the industry, we conclude our interview with a hopeful perspective for better standards and opportunities in the future. We thank him for sharing his valuable time with us.
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