Beta Film is joining forces with German public broadcaster ARD to present Ludwig, a historical drama series with a crime edge.
The story unfolds through the eyes of psychologist Gustav Zimmermann, who reviews the psychiatric report of Bavaria’s “fairytale king,” Ludwig II. Declared mentally incompetent on 12 June 1886, Ludwig’s life ended mysteriously the next day when he was found dead in a lake, creating a historical case shrouded in intrigue and controversy.
The series is directed by Nina Vukovic (Kleo 2) and Sebastian Ko (Tatort), who also serve as writers. It stars rising talents Luis Pintsch as King Ludwig II and Felix Mayr as Zimmermann. Produced by W&B Television (Pagan Peak, Dark, 4 Blocks), filming took place in Germany and the Czech Republic.
The production received financial support from the German Motion Picture Fund, Bavarian Film & Television Fund, and Czech Audiovisual Fund. Beta Film has acquired international rights and is presenting the series to buyers at London TV Screenings 2026.
Beta Film’s slate also includes other English- and foreign-language drama and crime series:
- English-language: Barton Vet (Canada), Patience S2, Professor T S5, BookishS2
- Foreign-language: Northern Traces (France), The Great Chimera (Greece-France-Italy), Gomorrah: The Origins (Italy), Rex Vienna Calling (Germany)
The company highlights that animal-focused series, such as Rex Vienna Calling and Barton Vet, tend to attract a wide audience across demographics, reinforcing their investment in such dramas.
Source: Episode Magazine
