Black Gold Rush

a quick and dirty film premise/treatment

Black Gold Rush
Black Truffle from Adobe Stock

Based on this article and suggested by a tweet that it be made into a film by Vincent Jung:

“Black Gold Rush” is a thrilling story about a group of truffle hunters in Italy who will stop at nothing to secure the valuable ‘black gold’ that fetches up to $5,000 per pound. The film follows the lives of three hunters in particular: Eddie Izzard’s character, a ruthless and cunning truffle hunter who will do whatever it takes to come out on top; Stanley Tucci’s character, a seasoned truffle hunter who finds himself caught up in the cutthroat world of truffle hunting; and Sophia Loren’s character, a wise and experienced truffle hunter who serves as a mentor and guide to the other two.

The story begins with the arrival of a new truffle hunting season, and the hunters are eager to get their hands on the valuable fungi. However, as the season progresses, it becomes clear that the competition is fierce, and the hunters will do whatever it takes to come out on top. This leads to a series of dangerous and deadly confrontations, as the hunters resort to poisoning their competitors’ dogs with snail bait in order to gain an advantage.

As the stakes get higher and the competition gets more intense, the three hunters are forced to make difficult choices about what they are willing to do in order to secure their share of the black gold. Along the way, they encounter a variety of characters, including rival truffle hunters, corrupt officials, and even the local mafia, all of whom are vying for a piece of the action.

As the story progresses, it becomes clear that the true prize is not the truffles themselves but the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with finding them. The film’s climax takes place in the heart of the truffle hunting season, when the hunters are pushed to their limits and forced to make a final, desperate gamble for the black gold.

“Black Gold Rush” is a gripping and thrilling story that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. With a talented cast led by Eddie Izzard, Stanley Tucci, and Sophia Loren, the film may have wide appeal with those who like thrillers set in a world not familiar to them.


© Copyright January 16, 2023, David August, all rights reserved davidaugust.com

David August is an award-winning actor, acting coach, writer, director, and producer. He plays a role in the movie Dependent’s Day, and after its theatrical run, it’s now out on Amazon. He has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live on ABC, on the TV show Ghost Town, and many others. His artwork has been used by multiple writers, filmmakers, theatre practitioners and others to express visually. Off-screen, he has worked at ad agencies, start-ups, production companies, and major studios, helping them tell stories their customers and clients adore. He has guest lectured at USC’s Marshall School of Business about the internet.