Christmas is already full of magic, but for Catalans, there's the added joy of enjoying turrones (nougat) as they tune in to the latest episode of El Foraster. This show, led by Quim Masferrer, has quickly become one of Catalunya's favorites. It’s not just the production team saying this; the viewers showcase their love every Monday evening when the latest episode hits the airwaves, launching the show to the top of the national ratings.
Masferrer travels across Catalunya, visiting remote villages, creating a vivid and magical experience on screen. The program perfectly embodies Catalan culture, and as Masferrer aptly puts it, seeks to showcase the "good people" found all around Catalunya. Every episode touches on themes of community, with viewers often finding themselves emotionally connected to the stories and characters portrayed.
It seems everyone dreams of having El Foraster film in their own village! What’s undeniable is the uniqueness Masferrer brings to the show. His charm captivates audiences, knowing exactly how to handle awkward or unexpected moments. And this leads to spontaneous, hilarious moments during episodes, as well as touching scenes sure to tug at viewers’ heartstrings.
Today, Masferrer is set to visit Sant Jordi Desvalls, and the lead-up to this episode has been particularly special. Unlike many of its episodes, this promotional content reveals something new. Often, fans only get to see the final, polished production. This time, Masferrer decided to pull back the curtain and offer fans glimpses behind the scenes through social media. He showcases the behind-the-scenes crew who are often hidden from sight.
"Mirad, una cosa que me apetece explicaros. En todos los pueblos nos dejan un lugar, que nosotros decimos el campo base, el base camp, que es donde guardamos material, vestuarios..." said Masferrer, explaining the setup where equipment and costumes are stored. Viewers are treated to visuals of Oriol, one of the crew members, surrounded by cameras and microphones, working diligently to curate the episode footage.
Masferrer takes viewers through the process, saying, "Aquí tenemos a en Quim, que tot el material que anem gravant, el va bolcant i el va classificando..." as he describes the behind-the-scenes work on organizing footage. It’s clear now: El Foraster extends far more than just jumping out of the car and capturing raw content. The layers of production are unveiled to reveal how episodes come together.
Not to forget, Masferrer finds humor even behind the scenes, catching his colleagues’ playful reluctance as they scamper away from the camera. "I aquests que acaben de marxar cap aquí... Mira, mira, mira... 'No volem sortir'," he commented, showcasing the lighthearted camaraderie among the crew. This unfiltered interaction between the show’s host and crew speaks volumes about their working relationship.
The talent and dedication of the crew behind the show shine brightly throughout the filming process. Masferrar has taken the opportunity to express his gratitude, saying, "Els companys no surten durant els episodis, però... són 'molt bona gent'"—a nod to the hard work of those seldom recognized during the broadcasts. Such acknowledgment from the host reinforces the bond they share.
While El Foraster has captured the heart of Catalunya through engaging storytelling, it’s clear the magic lies not only within Masferrer’s delightful hosting but also behind the scenes with the valuable efforts of the cast and crew. The successful combination of spontaneity, rich culture, enduring community ties, and unyielding teamwork invites viewers back for more, each episode primed to once again enchant its audience. It’s this behind-the-scenes glimpse shared by Masferrer, coupled with his engaging personality, which ensures El Foraster continues to thrive, resonate, and entertain the hearts of its viewers across Catalunya and beyond.