In the heart of Scotland, Ardross Castle serves as the intriguing backdrop for a popular reality show that challenges contestants both physically and mentally. Set amidst 100 acres of lush gardens and parkland, contestants are drawn into a world where time stands still, and every move is scrutinized by cameras. The show, known for its intense emotional engagements and strategic gameplay, offers viewers an unscripted glimpse into the contestants' lives and relationships. The filming process, however, is an adventure in itself, demanding resilience and creativity from those who dare to partake.
The journey to becoming a contestant on this show is no small feat. The application process is rigorous, requiring individuals to share compelling stories about themselves and their lives. Claudia, one of the show's creators, shares insights into the selection process, revealing that casting decisions are made after intense deliberations and consuming countless biscuits with the casting team.
"We talk to all of them, and then six of us go up to a room, the brilliant casting people, and we get through seven packets of biscuits." – Claudia
Once chosen, contestants find themselves immersed in an environment devoid of timekeeping devices. With no clocks in the castle, they lose all sense of time. This unique setting forces them to rely on producers for guidance and limits their movements to supervised excursions only. Cameras are strategically placed in every room, capturing every nuance of their interactions.
"It's weird at first because there are cameras in your face but after a while, you forget they're there and producers don't ever step in," – Harry
The show's filming schedule is equally unconventional. Each episode is shot over a single day, though the final cut is merely 10 minutes long. Roundtable discussions, often depicted briefly on screen, are in reality much lengthier affairs. Contestants navigate these discussions with caution, as alliances are formed and broken amidst intense scrutiny.
"Everyone has their own story and you're taking someone's chance of winning money away if they are banished." – Harry
The logistics behind filming such a complex show require a large crew. Over 200 people work on location to ensure the seamless execution of each episode. Despite the extensive crew presence, the show's creators emphasize its unscripted nature.
"The biggest shock was how unscripted everything is," – Dr Amos
The contestants' experience begins with a blindfolded journey to Ardross Castle. Maddy recounts the secretive drive that heightens anticipation as they near the filming site.
"It's about a 30-minute drive from the castle but you're blindfolded as you approach, so you can't see the car in front or figure out exactly where you are," – Maddy
Upon arrival, contestants are often led into holding rooms under the guise of heading to breakfast. Surprises await as they find murder letters awaiting their discovery instead.
"You turn up in the morning like you're going to breakfast and you are all waiting in these holding rooms. Eventually, you get called as if you're going to breakfast but instead, they take you to another room where the murder letter is sitting on a chair." – Maddy
Claudia provides insight into the degree of secrecy maintained around missions. Contestants remain unaware of upcoming challenges until they unfold.
"There's a team that create the missions and everyone else is in the dark about them. I would try off-camera to get them to tell me about it or I'd give them ideas but they wouldn't listen." – Claudia
As they navigate the intricacies of the game, contestants find solace in discussing mundane topics with fellow participants. Harry shares how conversations with Paul ranged from football clubs to extraterrestrial life—moments that rarely make it to the final edit.
"I spent most the day talking to Paul about Liverpool and Chelsea or finding out if everyone believes in aliens and obviously that stuff doesn't make the final edit because it's not relevant to the game." – Harry
Life within Ardross Castle is not without its challenges. Contestants endure less-than-ideal meals during their stay, with Dr Amos describing breakfast as particularly unappetizing.
"Contestants are given food, but the breakfast is described as 'horrible' by Dr Amos."
However, they have the opportunity to request specific comfort foods such as chicken nuggets and chips or even a crisp sandwich.
The intense nature of the show occasionally prompts producer intervention. Maddy recalls a moment when she was encouraged to reveal her acting background during breakfast—a strategic move designed to influence dynamics within the group.
"Producers intervene occasionally, such as telling Maddy to announce that she was an actor over breakfast."
Throughout it all, Claudia maintains her focus on avoiding eye contact with potential traitors during filming.
"I am absolutely paranoid about ever looking at the traitors, so I sort of look just above everybody's head," – Claudia
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