Beta Film is partnering with German public broadcaster ARD on a high-end historical drama series about Bavaria’s enigmatic King Ludwig II, titled Ludwig.
The series explores the life and tragic end of the monarch from the perspective of psychologist Gustav Zimmermann, who was tasked with reviewing Ludwig’s psychiatric report. King Ludwig II was declared mentally unfit to rule on 12 June 1886 and was found dead in a lake under mysterious circumstances the following day.
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.
