ZDF Studios is gearing up to present the documentary 'Tepui – Into the House of Gods' for sales at MipTV. This 50-minute film promises to transport audiences to a secluded world that has remained isolated for millions of years – the tabletop mountains in southern Venezuela. The production is a collaboration between Gruppe 5 Filmproduktion, ZDF's Terra X slot, Arte, and ZDF Studios, with direction and cinematography by Lars Abromeit and Jochen Schmoll.
The term 'Tepui' translates to 'House of Gods,' reflecting the reverence these mountains hold among the indigenous communities in southern Venezuela. Scientists view the Tepuis as 'islands of time,' prompting an international and interdisciplinary research team to embark on a perilous expedition to study life on these ancient mountains.
The team's exploration delves into the possibility of primeval microbes found in extensive cave systems on the Tepuis offering potential medical benefits. Researchers are investigating whether these bacteria could yield substances crucial for developing new antibiotics, potentially revolutionizing healthcare and saving countless lives.
During their expedition, the team uncovers fascinating discoveries, such as a carnivorous aquatic cicada, a unique species believed to be a mutation of its plant-feeding counterpart on the surface of the Tepuis. Additionally, the researchers observe intriguing adaptations in guácharo birds, which typically nest on higher cave ledges but have evolved to build ground nests on the Tepuis.
The documentary also highlights the rich biodiversity of plants and animals on the Tepuis, prompting discussions on nature conservation efforts in the region. Nikolas Huelbusch, director of unscripted content at ZDF Studios, commended Gruppe 5 for capturing the Tepuis' distinctiveness. He emphasized the documentary's role in not only showcasing the mountains' beauty but also unveiling groundbreaking discoveries that could address global challenges.
