Beta Film has joined as the international distributor of the crime series about the death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, for which Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Disney’s iconic castle logo.
The show is produced by W&B Television, known for “Pagan Peak,” “Dark” and “4 Blocks,” for German broadcaster ARD.
The series follows Gustav Zimmermann, a psychologist tasked with reviewing psychiatric reports on King Ludwig II. This report is the document that ultimately determines whether the king is deemed incompetent to govern. The more you focus on uncovering the reasons for Ludwig’s removal from power, the closer you will come to uncovering the king’s secrets, including his struggle with power, his yearning for freedom, and his forbidden love.
Beta Film said, “‘Ludwig’ is a cinematic journey into the fantasy world of kings, rich in luxury and money. But behind all the pomp and spectacle stood a mysterious man, as mysterious as life and death. Set in Bavaria in the late 1800s, ‘Ludwig’ is a fascinating and tragic story of life and strange love, infused with a captivating crime story and heart.”
Filming took place at historic locations such as Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and the Old Royal Palace Residenz in central Munich. Filming also took place in the Czech Republic.
Rising talent Louis Pintsch (22 Lengths) stars as King Ludwig II, along with Felix Meyer (Maverick, Senna) as psychologist Gustav Zimmermann, Aaron Frees (The Corsage, Franz K.) and Carlotta Behle (Ku’damm). 77”), Jonathan Kriener (Shabos), Tom Vlasiha (Stranger Things, The Boat), Francis Fulton-Smith (Imperial Oktoberfest), and Karl Markovics (The Counterfeiters, Babylon Berlin).
Ludwig is directed by Nina Vukovic (Cleo 2) and Sebastian Coe (Tatort), both of whom are also screenwriters. Head writers are Dominic Kemp and Marianne Wendt. The cinematographer is Jan Prahl (The Signal). Oliver Vogel, Quirin Berg, Max Wiedemann and Dominic Kempff will serve as executive producers, with Stefan Muterich serving as co-executive producer and Greta Heisig as associate producer.
Ferdinand Dona, head of content at Beta Films, described Ludwig as “a romantic dreamer with rock star charm who reflected on his visions and dreams, especially Neuschwanstein Castle, which famously inspired Disney’s iconic castle logo. Like all great romantic heroes, he ultimately failed and died under mysterious circumstances at a young age. These are the elements of a larger-than-life character brought to life in this miniseries. A production by an excellent creative team and a charming cast that resonates with audiences around the world. ”
Oliver Vogel, Managing Director of W&B Television, said: “Everyone knows that King Ludwig II is a fascinating artist – melancholy, extravagant and reclusive in a world of fantasy far removed from reality.” In “Ludwig,” we unravel old myths and create new works. In collaboration with ARD, BR, Servas TV and SRF, we are once again putting the spotlight on the real Ludwig: vulnerable, contradictory and visionary.”
“We reimagine the story of the legendary fairy-tale king as a fictional cold case reopened, shedding new light on his mysterious death,” said Christophe Pelander, commissioning editor at ARD Dejet Film. “Thanks to Nina Vukovic and Sebastian Coe and executive producers Oliver Vogel and Quirin Berg, this project combines historical and contemporary suspense to create a high-end series that meets our needs.” International standards are only possible by working with great partners. We are delighted to partner with Beta Film, BR, as well as ServusTV and SRF on this outstanding series. ”
Ludwig is produced by W&B Television for ARD Degeto, BR, ServusTV and SRF. The series is supported by the German Film Fund (GMPF), the Bavarian Film and Television Fund (FFF Bayern), and also receives support from the Czech Audiovisual Fund’s production grant. Beta Film will be responsible for international sales.
