Scripted

Beta Film has joined the high-end fiction drama "Ludwig" (working title) as its international partner. Produced by W&B Television for ARD, BR, ServusTV, and SRF, the series offers a bold reimagining of the life and mysterious death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria.

Set in the late 1800s, the series blends a captivating crime story with a tragic tale of queer love and visionary ambition. The narrative follows psychologist Gustav Zimmermann as he reviews a psychiatric report to determine the King’s competency to rule, eventually uncovering secrets regarding Ludwig’s struggles with power and his longing for freedom. Filming recently wrapped at historic locations, including the UNESCO World Heritage Castle Neuschwanstein and the Munich Residenz.

The production features a cast led by Luis Pintsch as King Ludwig II and Felix Mayr as Gustav Zimmermann, supported by Tom Wlaschiha, Karl Markovics, and Francis Fulton-Smith. The project is directed by Nina Vukovic and Sebastian Ko.

Ferdinand Dohna, Head of Content, Beta Film: "The global fascination with Ludwig is no coincidence. He was a romantic dreamer with rock-star allures, who accepted no compromises when the realization of his visions and dreams was at stake, most notably Neuschwanstein Castle, which famously inspired Disney’s iconic castle logo. Like every good romantic hero, he failed in the end and died under mysterious circumstances at a young age. These are the ingredients for larger-than-life characters, brought to life in this miniseries by an outstanding creative team and magnetic cast that will resonate with audiences around the world."

Oliver Vogel, Managing Director W&B Television: "We all know Ludwig II as a fascinating artistic figure - melancholic, extravagant, withdrawn into a fantasy world far from reality. With 'Ludwig', we are unravelling the old myths, approaching the person behind all these masks, and telling a visually powerful story about a queer life in a repressive era. Together with ARD, BR, Servus TV and SRF, we are bringing the real Ludwig back into the spotlight - vulnerable, contradictory, visionary."

Christoph Pellander, Head of Commissioning Editors ARD Degeto Film: “We are reimagining the tale of the legendary fairytale king as a fictional cold case that is reopened, shedding new light on his mysterious death. Thanks to the outstanding creative team in the writers' room, directors Nina Vukovic and Sebastian Ko, and executive producers Oliver Vogel and Quirin Berg, this project combines history with modern suspense. Creating a high-end series that meets international standards is only possible by joining forces with great partners. I’m delighted to partner with Beta Film, BR, as well as ServusTV and SRF, on this exceptional series.”