"The Political Assembly"
Be-Entertainment has secured the distribution rights to new Belgian format "The Political Assembly" (local title: "Het Conclaaf"), created and produced by Bargoens. On air in the run-up to the Belgian parliamentary elections to be held this week, the format challenges the biggest politicians in the country to convene for a full weekend of group debates, one-on-one ‘duels’ and personal confessions.
Over the course of four weekly episodes aired in primetime on VTM on Thursday evenings, Flemish viewers are being treated to a huge dose of verbal fireworks, resulting in a phenomenal 48% market share (18-44, consolidated) for the three episodes that have already aired. This is more than double the channel’s average market share.
The format received a lot of media attention in the run-up to the elections, as it featured all key politicians in an entirely new and unusual setting. They gather at a scenic castle for the weekend, to discuss their political viewpoints and confront each other on opposing opinions and policy. Without the presence of spin doctors, audiences watch the politicians show their true colors, both as passionate professionals, but also as real people.
"The Political Assembly" offers a rare peek beyond the layers of public speech and political dogmas. Spending the weekend together under one roof means there’s no escape from getting up close and personal, and sometimes getting to the bottom of long-lasting feuds.