The Serengeti, a name derived from the Maasai language meaning “Endless Plains,” stretches across 30,000 square kilometers of African Savannah, shared between Tanzania and Kenya. Wildlife filmmaker Reinhard Radke dedicated two years of his life to this vast wilderness, in pursuit of capturing breathtaking images. This cinematic endeavor marks the first German film about the Serengeti in over half a century, employing the latest technology. Utilizing footage shot at remarkable speeds of up to 2,000 frames per second, Radke unveils previously unseen worlds. However, filming in the Serengeti presents a challenging task filled with unexpected surprises and thrilling adventures.
The daybreak awakens the Savannah, prompting early starts. The initial light is crucial, as numerous animals prefer hunting during the cool morning hours. Radke, a biologist with three decades of regular visits to the Serengeti under his belt, embarked on field trips and television projects before undertaking this ambitious film venture. To capture superior footage, a modified 4×4 vehicle serves as a camera platform. Its roof has been reinforced, and every angle is made accessible from a filming balcony. Given the multitude of wildebeest roaming the land, predators are never too far away, making locating them a challenging task.
Having captured extraordinary hunting scenes, Radke now contemplates his own sustenance. Despite the vehicle’s peculiarities, it proves to be a versatile companion, equipped with compartments for various needs. Prepared for impromptu overnight stays in the wilderness, the car holds everything essential, eliminating the need for a long drive back to the base camp.
The filmmaker is not alone; he has a lookout by his side. The lookout’s primary responsibility is to identify the film’s main characters. A thorough understanding of animal behavior patterns is imperative for this role, a skill Radke’s companion possesses. As evening approaches, storm clouds gather, and overnight rain transforms sandy tracks into treacherous mud. Even the most capable off-road vehicle can become stuck, but assistance can be found even in the most remote corners of the Serengeti.
