On the Trail of The Acolyte in Madeira
In his series “On the Trail of The Acolyte in Madeira,” James Floyd explores the filming of the Star Wars series “The Acolyte” on Madeira Island. His journey offers insights into the production process and the island’s unique contributions to the series.
Part One: Preparing for the Journey
Before his trip, Floyd conversed with Gerardo Fernandes, the show’s line producer for Portugal. Fernandes, a seasoned producer, faced the challenge of organizing a large-scale production on an island with limited film infrastructure. Starting in October, he coordinated the transportation of equipment from England and sourced necessary vehicles from Portugal and Spain. Hotels in Funchal were transformed into crew housing and production offices, facilitating efficient operations. Fernandes’ local upbringing and extensive experience since 1988 provided him with valuable insights into navigating the filming process on Madeira.
Upon arriving in December, Floyd immersed himself in Madeira’s festive atmosphere. Elaborate Christmas decorations adorned the street. Many lights illuminated the hillsides and towns. In Funchal, he explored the Christmas market, sampling local delicacies like “bolo do caco,” a traditional flatbread. Staying at the Hotel Pestana Casino Park, he enjoyed panoramic views of Funchal‘s harbor and cityscape.
Read Part one
Part Two: Exploring the Island
Floyd, along with his friend and a tour group, embarked on a guided tour of Funchal. They also ventured to the north and east side of the island, visiting a trout farm amidst pouring rain. A stop at a rum factory provided an opportunity to purchase a rain slicker, which coincidentally marked the end of the rain for the day. The group visited several cliffside viewpoints, observing rock formations, waterfalls, and even a lone surfer in a cove. They tasted “espada,” a black scabbardfish often served with banana or passionfruit.
Part Three: Insights into Filming Locations
Floyd delved into specific filming locations used in “The Acolyte.” He identified various sites across Madeira that served as backdrops for the series. For instance, the Viewpoint Pico do Areeiro was used for establishing shots of the planet Khofar. The area near ER228 & ER105 in Lombo do Moleiro depicted scenes of the Eclipse II flying. Poço das Casas in Boaventura served as the landing site for the Eclipse II and nearby paths. Parque Florestal do Fanal was the setting for the Jedi landing site and subsequent walking scenes. These locations showcased Madeira’s diverse landscapes, enhancing the visual storytelling of “The Acolyte.”
Read Part two and Part three
Acolyte Conclusion
Through his detailed exploration, James Floyd highlights Madeira’s significant role in the production of “The Acolyte.” His journey underscores the island’s natural beauty and its adaptability as a filming location, offering fans a deeper appreciation for the settings featured in the series.
