Belize’s first television dramatic mini series, “NOH MATTA WAT” is in jeopardy of being discontinued after only two seasons. Usually a television show gets cancelled for low ratings or negative public sentiment, but neither is the case here. The major culprit is BOOTLEGGING; specifically, the bootleg operations in the United States.
The series is produced by 13 PRODUCTIONS. In speaking with Denvor Fairweather, co-owner and executive producer, I discovered that he is presently embroiled in a most difficult battle concerning the bootlegging operation in Los Angeles, the state producers targeted because it sold the largest number of bootlegged copies. Mr. Fairweather expressed disappointment in his fellow countrymen that they’ve attempted with great success so far, to profit from the illegal manufacturing of the digital versatile disc (DVD) recordings of the critically acclaimed series.
The illegal manufacturing, distributing, and consuming of “NOH MATTA WAT” has put the entire production and the future of this historic series in jeopardy. Producers have lost thousands of dollars from the unauthorized sales of season one. The lost revenues directly impacted the production of season two. As a result, the decision to tape a third season of the popular television series is on hold. It is not an exaggeration to conclude that the bootleg operations are presently driving production of the series out of business.
13 PRODUCTIONS has retained attorneys to proceed with legal action against those identified in the production and distribution of the unauthorized DVDs. The series is copyright in Belize and the United States. It’s important to note that U.S. federal copyright statutes are written in such a way that it protects the subject matter. The fact that "NOH MATTA WAT" is copyright in Belize is enough for the company to take legal action through the U.S. court system. This also makes it possible for producers to pursue civil claims for damages against all persons who are involved at any level of the bootleg operations. Criminal charges for the illegal actions are entirely dependent on the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The series originally aired in Belize, portrays a family that is conflicted over past secrets and the consequences it can have on their futures. A DVD recording of the series was released soon thereafter and marketed to Belizeans living abroad. The episodes provided a nostalgic link for those who no longer reside in Belize.
Episodes of season two may be viewed at www.nohmattawat.com beginning March 1, 2007. The authentic full-length version of the season becomes available for purchase on April 1, 2007. Copies currently being circulated of the second season for sales are unauthorized, illegal, inferior quality and incomplete. Season one is currently available on DVD for purchase.
All purchases can be done directly from the website or from listed authorized distributors. Producers are asking the Belizean American community to support artistic integrity and quality by purchasing only authentic copies. Authenticity is distinguished by a silver tint and blue or black printing on the disc itself. Production of a third season is heavily dependent on DVD sales. All funds raised will go towards financing production of the third season. Businesses interested in advertising on the show or on its website, may contact producers at a13productions@hotmail.com or a13pro_office@yahoo.com.