Sabrina Farzi, who found success with the Argentinian medical dramas “Fronteras” and “El Paraiso,” is currently developing a new entry into the subgenre with “Gasp” (“Bocanada”). The series will be on the market for the first time at the prestigious Ventana Sur in Buenos Aires (1st to 5th December).
Gasp has been described as a “raw and intimate” medical drama set in a chaotic primary care clinic on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, with Faruzi adding that the series is about “finding connection, hope and fresh air in unexpected places.”
The project is inspired by successful US productions such as “Grey’s Anatomy” and “New Amsterdam.” The film blends the American language of high-end TV drama with the social realism and emotional intensity of Farzi’s Argentinian versions of Fronteras and El Paraiso to deliver an authentic depiction of resilience, humor and hope under pressure.
The mass-produced models in this series are designed for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Filming is condensed into one location (the clinic) almost entirely indoors to create a highly controlled and immersive environment. “Gasp” will also be filmed outside of clinics in states such as Mendoza and Cordoba, where attractive cash rebates are offered, as well as providing the credibility needed for the project. Casting is a key element of the model, with the creative team aiming to “blend established actors with emerging talent to create a strong and compelling ensemble that reflects both experience and discovery.”
Based in Buenos Aires, Farzi’s production label Zoelle focuses on gender perspectives and diversity. Its acclaimed portfolio includes “Trópico,” “Ex Casados,” “Fronteras,” “El Paraíso,” and “Mariquita,” with new projects in development such as “Bocanada,” “Pasionarias,” and a feature on Petrona C. de Gandolfo. Zoelle is committed to innovative storytelling, complex characters, and inclusive production practices, building 50/50 teams and empowering women creators in leadership roles.
When asked why she and Zoelle’s creative team are drawn to medical dramas, Farge said, “Medical dramas reveal the world of the people who hold our lives in their hands.”
“These stories explore complex human and social issues by showing vulnerability, humor, pain and resilience,” she added. “We are drawn to strong, universal stories that retain a strong local identity. Medical dramas allow us to explore both physical and emotional action and push the drama to its limits. We believe in bringing impactful stories to the screen that highlight values such as, of course, a good sense of humor. We create series that avoid stereotypes, feature strong female characters, and also have strong drama and comedy.”
Sabrina Farge
The showrunner, who is also vice president of the Argentine Academy of Cinematographic Arts, said the team is “really excited” to begin the series’ journey in Ventana Sur. “We are filled with pride and joy to bring to life such a powerful project that combines intense action and humor with a humane story of togetherness and resilience. Ventana Sur is essential to us as we expand our co-production opportunities on the project and position Bocanada across international stages and platforms.”
“Gasp” (“Bocanada”) was produced for Zoëlle by Sabrina Farzi, María Vacas and Octavio Nadal. Falge will also serve as showrunner and director, as well as co-write the series with Giulia Scarone (Frontiers).
