Alex Berger on Shooting Arte Series ‘Eldorado’ in Ivory Coast 

Producer Alex Berger Delivers Keynote Speech at SICA in Abidjan

At the International Salon for Audiovisual Content (SICA) in Abidjan, producer Alex Berger, known for his work on “The Bureau” and “La Maison,” gave a captivating keynote speech on the ambitious series “Eldorado” at France’s Arte. He highlighted the importance of shooting the series in the Ivory Coast, emphasizing the significance of building relationships and collaborations in the region.

Berger’s speech not only shed light on the production of “Eldorado” but also provided insights into how Ivory Coast can position itself as a key player in the international film industry as a shooting location and co-producer.

According to Berger, the decision to film “Eldorado” in the Ivory Coast stemmed from his initial visit to Africa during last year’s SICA event. He expressed his belief that the story needed to come to life in the vibrant setting of sub-Saharan Africa.

“Eldorado” is a six-episode series that follows the journey of a Belgian entrepreneur in the late 1960s who becomes entangled with a French oil company while searching for water in Africa. The series, based on a true story, was developed over three years by Berger’s production company TOP and director Louis Farge.

Berger’s interest in the Ivory Coast was sparked by conversations with local industry professionals at SICA 2024. He emphasized the importance of building a sustainable ecosystem for film production in the region, including nurturing local talent and attracting more international projects.

By shifting the production of “Eldorado” to Abidjan and predominantly hiring local crew members, Berger demonstrated his commitment to supporting the growth of the Ivorian film industry. He also utilized creative financing strategies, such as co-production deals with Belgium, to maximize resources for the project.

Berger’s collaboration with Arte on “Eldorado” showcases the potential for telling compelling stories that resonate globally while highlighting the unique perspectives of African filmmakers. The series’ historical inspiration, the Great Oil Sniffer Hoax, underscores the contemporary relevance of the narrative.

Looking ahead, Berger expressed his desire to further engage with the region through collaborations with local filmmakers such as Alex Ogou, Mamane, and Kimberly Azria. He remains optimistic about the future of the Ivorian film industry, acknowledging the challenges while emphasizing the potential for growth and innovation.

As Berger continues to explore opportunities in the region, his dedication to supporting local talent and fostering creative partnerships serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling in the African film industry.