Written by on Feb 6, 2015. Posted in Production News

Mandrake and Rogue Agent film in Haiti for relief organisation sponsor Jeep

Czech creative agency Mandrake and its US production partner Rogue Agent have produced a new film showcasing the relief work being done in Haiti by J/P HRO. The organisation was founded by actor Sean Penn and is supported by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Jeep brand.

Mandrake and Rogue Agent spent eight days filming in Haiti, mainly in the capital Port-au-Prince. The small production team brought in its own equipment for the shoot.

“We were very lucky to have a very experienced fixer, Sebastian Petion, who provided great support and insight into the local ways,” says Vladimir Jedlicka of Mandrake.

“Production infrastructure is close to non-existent so we had to bring everything in. That wasn’t too much of a problem, since we were a small team of six people.

“There is however a local film school in Jacmel that was very forthcoming, so I believe that they are a very competent breeding ground for good crew in the future.”

The team’s security was taken care of by two off-duty police officers, who Jedlicka says were “more respected” by the locals than a private security team, although he adds that the team “never felt threatened”.

Production infrastructure is close to non-existent so we had to bring everything in.

Vladimir Jedlicka, Mandrake

“Since there is really no infrastructure for filming and no experienced crews the place is obviously a challenge for filmmakers,” Jedlicka continues, “but it more than makes up for it with weather, friendliness of its people and beauty.

“Once you get out of Port-au-Prince, where almost five years after the earthquake its effects are still felt, [the impact is] visible everywhere with rubble, crowded streets, and bad and congested roads.”

Jedlicka considers that getting a good fixer was crucial to helping the team navigate all the unwritten rules of Haiti and avoiding the no-go parts of the country.

Credits:
Client: Jeep (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
Agency: Mandrake
Production Company: Rogue Agent
Haiti Fixer: Sebastian Petion