Behind the Scenes of 'The Farm': Finding the Perfect Location and Contestants

As the 12th season of Slovenia's popular reality show "Kmetija" (The Farm) unfolds on our screens, the production team at Delo is already deep in planning for the future. While viewers are captivated by the drama unfolding on the Dolenjska estate, the physical location itself is temporary. The buildings erected for the show are now gone, and the search is on for a new, suitable property to host the next season's contestants.

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The property is one of the first key tasks in preparing the show, as it partly dictates its content, depending on what the location offers (e.g., existing buildings, water, forest).

Finding the right farm is more than just selecting a picturesque backdrop; it's a critical logistical and creative challenge. "The property is one of the first key tasks in preparing the show, as it partly dictates its content, depending on what the location offers," explains Matevž Križaj, the show's chief producer. The ideal site needs to be at least five hectares, sufficiently remote to avoid interference from civilization, and possess varied terrain suitable for building sets and staging challenges. Crucially, it must have access to electricity, water, and internet, along with nearby accommodation for the approximately 50-person crew. Locations marred by visible houses, infrastructure, or constant noise from traffic or planes are immediately disqualified.

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We need enough space for all production facilities and points, so it must be at least approximately five hectares and sufficiently removed from civilization so that filming can proceed smoothly.

Beyond the physical location, the heart of "Kmetija" lies in its contestants. The casting process, led by Minka Kladnik, head of casting, is rigorous. It begins with online applications and video submissions, where potential participants must showcase their character and motivations. This is followed by in-person auditions designed to assess their openness and authenticity. "The success of the casting is usually evident in the dynamics between the contestants: when the right 'chemistry' is established, when they are genuine, entertaining, and take both the game and their mission seriously," Kladnik notes.

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Logistics are important: electricity, water, and internet must be provided nearby, as well as sufficient accommodation for the approximately 50-person team.

From Delo's perspective, "Kmetija" offers a unique lens through which to explore Slovenian identity, resilience, and the challenges of rural life. While international reality shows often focus on manufactured drama, "Kmetija" strives for a rawer, more authentic portrayal. The search for a new location and the meticulous casting process underscore the commitment to delivering a compelling and believable experience for viewers, reflecting the Slovenian spirit in a way that resonates deeply with our audience.

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The selection takes place in several rounds. The first step is an application on our website, where it is important for candidates to present themselves well—both in writing and in video, as we try to sense their character and motivation there.