Gonzalo Vergara

Magic Map of Chile is a documentary series that explores the cultural and natural identity of Chile through the journey of magician Jean Paul Olhaberry. The inspiration came from a desire to look at territory not only as geography, but as memory and mystery. Chile is a country of extreme landscapes, but also of deep ancestral narratives and unanswered questions. I wanted to create a cinematic journey where landscape, tradition, and human experience intersect — where mystery becomes a doorway to cultural understanding rather than spectacle.

My vision was to create a documentary series that felt immersive and intimate rather than informative. We approached each territory as an emotional encounter. Visually, we worked with cinematic framing, natural light, and large-scale landscapes contrasted with close human moments. The magic element was never spectacle — it was a narrative bridge to curiosity and connection.

Collaboration was essential. From producers to cinematographers, everyone understood that the project required sensitivity. We worked closely on pre-research, visual references, and tone. During filming, we remained flexible, allowing reality to guide us. Trust within the team allowed us to capture authentic moments rather than staged ones.

Filming in extreme locations — from the Atacama Desert to Antarctica — required logistical precision. Weather, isolation, and cultural responsibility were constant challenges. We overcame them through preparation, strong local collaboration, and by respecting the rhythms of each place.

The episode filmed in Antarctica stands out. What began as a short performance for scientists became a deeply human reflection about fragility and wonder. Also, the equinox scene in  Piedra del Sol carries a powerful emotional charge — it connects landscape, time, and collective experience.

Every project teaches humility. If anything, I would allow even more time for community immersion. The biggest lesson was that documentary filmmaking is about listening more than directing.

The official documentary of the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games holds a special place for me. It captured a historical moment for Chile and combined epic scale with intimate human stories.

Develop your voice before chasing trends. Technical skills matter, but perspective matters more. Be patient. Build trust. And remember that cinema is ultimately about human connection.

Although this is a documentary, I approach real participants with the same respect as actors. I create safe spaces for authenticity. I never force performances — I wait for truth.

the landscapes to breathe, allowing natural ambience to play a central role. The musical composition and arrangements by Benjamin Griffiths were especially important. His work brought subtlety, depth, and emotional continuity to each episode. Rather than imposing music over the image, we treated it as an invisible thread — guiding the viewer through reflection, wonder, and silence. Our collaboration was built on dialogue, shared references, and a strong sensitivity to the rhythm of the landscapes.