Even though regional differences are still strong and noticeable, the lines are starting to blur, with the increased competition within the two largest markets, Brazil and Mexico (Hernandez & McAnany, 1997). In Brazil the television network SBT (Sistema Brasileiro de Televisão) has popularized Mexican telenovelas, which are dubbed in Portuguese. SBT imports most of the telenovelas shown in the network from Mexico. SBT is also producing Brazilian versions of Mexican soaps, as the recent (2003) "Canavial de Paixões" (Sugar-cane fields of passion). On the other hand, TV Asteca in Mexico has started to produce more politicized dramas, and showing Brazilian soaps. Even Televisa has changed the formula setting the story in an undisclosed location in order to give it a sense of universality, and started to set the novelas in a more identifiable location. "Acapulco Cuerpo y Alma" (Acapulco with body and soul), a 1999 Televisa production, exemplifies that.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements / Dedication - Abstract

CHAPETER 1- INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER II - REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
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