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MIPCOM Cannes will host the world premiere of Ku’damm 77, the latest three-part installment in the long-running Berlin-set family saga, with the screening scheduled during the market week that runs October 13–16. The new chapter continues the story at the Galant dance school and moves the action to 1977, extending one of Germany’s most exported drama franchises onto the global buyers’ stage.

Ku’damm 77 reunites creator and writer Annette Hess with UFA Fiction, with direction by Maurice Hübner. Returning cast includes Sonja Gerhardt, Claudia Michelsen, Maria Ehrich, Emilia Schüle, Sabin Tambrea and August Wittgenstein; new faces include Carlotta Bähre, Marie Louise Albertine Becker, Massiamy Diaby, Florian Stetter and Aziz Dyab. Zdf Studios is handling worldwide distribution. Filming began in January and ran through spring in and around Berlin.

Set amid a divided city and shifting social currents, the story finds multiple generations living above the dance school: sisters Monika and Helga,...

Ku’damm 77, the latest installment in the long-running hit German period drama series, will have its world premiere at this year’s international TV trade fair MIPCOM, which runs Oct. 13–16.

The three-part historical drama, created and written by Annette Hess (The Weissensee Saga, Interpreter of Silence) and directed by Maurice Hübner (Kitz, Family Braun), continues the story of the Schöllack family, centered around the “Galant” dance school on Berlin’s Kurfürstendamm. Set in 1977, the series follows three generations living under one roof as they navigate themes of emancipation, self-discovery, and social change.

The returning cast includes Sonja Gerhardt, Maria Ehrich, Claudia Michelsen and Emilia Schüle, joined by new members Carlotta Bähre, Marie Louise Albertine Becker, Massiamy Diaby, Florian Stetter and Aziz Dyab.

The premiere will take place on Oct. 14 in the Grand Auditorium of the Palais des Festivals, with a screening followed by a Q&a with the creative team and cast.

Exclusive: Lyna Khoudri and Lucas Bravo, Georgina Amorós and Omar Ayuso, Emilia Schüle and Aaron Altaras, Julia Dalavia and Rodrigo Simas, and Ludovica Martino and Federico Cesari have been cast to portray Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in the upcoming multilingual Audible Original adaptations of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

The new audio series will be available in German, Italian, French, Brazilian Portuguese, and Castilian Spanish, from September 9 in Germany, France, and French Canada and on October 6, in Spain, Brazil, Italy, and for US Hispanic Audiences.

The castings and schedule is as follows:

Releasing September 9, 2025:

German: Emilia Schüle as Elizabeth Bennet and Aaron Altaras Mr. Darcy French: Lyna Khoudri as Elizabeth Bennet and Lucas Bravo) as Mr. Darcy – releasing in France and French Canada

Releasing October 6, 2025:

Italian: Ludovica Martino as Elizabeth Bennet and Federico Cesari as Mr. Darcy Brazilian Portuguese: Julia Dalavia as Elizabeth Bennet and Rodrigo Simas as Mr.

The second season of Marie Antoinette returns viewers to a French court teetering on a precipice, a decade into the reign of Louis XVI (Louis Cunningham) and his queen, Marie Antoinette (Emilia Schüle). The opulence of Versailles stands in stark, unsettling contrast to the palpable misery gripping the kingdom.

France shivers through one of the coldest winters recorded, its treasury depleted by foreign conflicts, its people seething with a discontent that grows louder with each passing day. Within this pressure cooker, the young monarchs appear increasingly isolated.

Marie Antoinette, portrayed with a keen desire for popular affection, finds her every gesture scrutinized, her attempts at connection often curdling into further public resentment. The initial episodes lay a path strewn with ominous portents, signaling a period where the crown’s legitimacy will face its most severe tests, and personal desires clash ruinously with the demands of a nation in turmoil.

Whispers...

On Sunday May 11 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

The End of the Beginning Season 2 Episode 8 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “The End of the Beginning,” promises to be a pivotal moment in the series. Set against the backdrop of a nation in turmoil, this episode explores the challenges faced by Marie Antoinette as she navigates the complexities of her husband’s reign during a time of revolution.

As tensions rise in France, Marie Antoinette finds herself in a difficult position. She is determined to support King Louis XVI, but the weight of the revolution begins to take its toll. Louis, already struggling with the pressures of leadership, succumbs to a deep depression. This leaves Marie Antoinette in a precarious situation, as she must step up to fill the void left by her husband.

Viewers can expect to see Marie Antoinette take on a more active role in governance. She...

On Sunday May 4 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

Madame Deficit Season 2 Episode 7 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Madame Deficit,” promises to be an emotional and intense installment. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent French court, this episode dives deep into Marie Antoinette’s struggles following the tragic death of her daughter, Sophie. The loss weighs heavily on her, and viewers will see how this grief affects her relationships and her role as queen.

In addition to her personal sorrow, Marie Antoinette faces a new challenge as extortion comes into play. Stolen love letters to Count Axel von Fersen threaten to expose her private feelings and create further scandal. This situation adds pressure to an already strained atmosphere in the palace, highlighting the dangers of court intrigue and the vulnerability of those in power.

Meanwhile, King Louis XVI is also grappling with his own issues. The mounting stress from...

In the upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “The End of the Beginning,” viewers will witness a pivotal moment in the lives of the royal couple. Set against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of revolution, the episode will explore the deepening struggles faced by Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI. As the political landscape shifts dramatically, Marie must find a way to support her husband and his faltering reign.

As the episode unfolds, Louis succumbs to a profound depression, leaving Marie to navigate the treacherous waters of leadership alone. This unexpected turn of events forces her to step into a role she never anticipated. The weight of the crown becomes heavier as she grapples with the challenges of ruling a kingdom in turmoil. Viewers can expect to see Marie’s resilience tested as she fights to maintain stability and protect her family’s legacy.

“The End of the...

Phil Dunster, best known to audiences as the AFC Richmond football player Jamie Tartt on Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso,has been cast in a leading role in a new movie based on a popular graphic novel franchise. Per Deadline, Dunster, along with Corey Mylchreest (Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story)and Emilia Schüle (Marie Antoinette), have been cast in the new spy thriller, Blake & Mortimer: The Yellow M.

The film comes from French director Cédric Nicolas-Troyan, who was nominated for an Oscar for Best Visual Effects for Snow White and the Huntsman.It will be a live-action adaptation of the best-selling Blake and Mortimer graphic novel series by author Edgar P. Jacobs. The book franchise has sold around 20 million copies around the world and has been translated into 15 languages.

Image via Apple TV+ Dunster Will Play a Scientist

The series follows MI5 Captain Francis Blake and his friend, scientist Philip Mortimer.

Ted Lasso star Phil Dunster, Corey Mylchreest (Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story) and Emilia Schüle (Marie Antoinette) have signed for action-spy thriller Blake & Mortimer: The Yellow M.

Directed by French director Cédric Nicolas-Troyan, the feature is an English-language, live action adaptation of best-selling graphic novel franchise Blake and Mortimer by Edgar P. Jacobs.

The franchise, which has sold 20 million copies worldwide and been translated into 15 languages, revolves around the adventures of MI5 Captain Francis Blake and his scientist friend Philip Mortimer. Mylchreest will play Blake opposite Dunster as Mortimer.

Mister Smith Entertainment will launch international sales in Cannes on the French-Belgian-uk co-production, currently slated for a September 2025 start of principal photography, shooting mostly in the UK and Belgium. CAA is representing the US rights. Belga will distribute the film in Benelux.

The official synopsis reads: “Europe, 1941. Nazi Germany develops the Omega Wave: a dangerous...

On Sunday April 27 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

Hated, Humbled, Mortified Season 2 Episode 6 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Hated, Humbled, Mortified,” promises to be a gripping installment in the series. Set against the backdrop of political turmoil in France, this episode focuses on the royal couple’s hopes that the indictment of Rohan will help calm the rising tensions among the aristocracy. As the trial unfolds, viewers will witness the complex interplay of power, loyalty, and betrayal that defines this tumultuous period in history.

In this episode, Rohan’s fate takes center stage as the trial progresses. The royal couple believes that a favorable outcome could stabilize the fragile situation within the court. However, the events take an unexpected turn, leading to Rohan’s exoneration. Despite this legal victory, the episode reveals the darker side of court life as a false testimony emerges, casting a shadow over Marie Antoinette’s reputation.

In the upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Madame Deficit,” viewers will witness a poignant chapter in the life of the French queen. Set to air at 10:00 Pm on Sunday, May 4, 2025, on PBS, this episode delves deep into Marie Antoinette’s heartache as she mourns the loss of her daughter, Sophie. The emotional weight of grief will be palpable, showcasing the queen’s struggles as she navigates her royal duties while dealing with personal tragedy.

As Marie Antoinette grapples with her sorrow, a new threat emerges. The episode reveals a sinister twist as the queen faces extortion over stolen love letters addressed to her confidant, Count Axel von Fersen. This situation adds layers of tension to the narrative, as the stakes are raised for both Marie Antoinette and those close to her. The pressure of maintaining her image and protecting her loved ones will weigh heavily on her.

Meanwhile, King...

On Sunday April 20 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

Enemies Assemble Season 2 Episode 5 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Enemies Assemble,” promises to bring new challenges for the young queen. As Marie Antoinette grapples with the news of her pregnancy, she faces a mix of emotions that complicate her royal duties and personal life. The episode will explore her struggles to accept this new chapter, highlighting the pressures of motherhood amid the political turmoil of the time.

Meanwhile, the story takes a dramatic turn with the character of Rohan. His imprisonment in the Bastille adds a layer of tension to the narrative. Rohan’s situation not only affects his own fate but also intertwines with Marie Antoinette’s journey, creating a web of conflict and intrigue. The audience can expect to see how these two characters’ paths intersect and influence each other as the episode unfolds.

“Enemies Assemble” will delve into themes of power,...

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Hated, Humbled, Mortified,” promises to be a gripping chapter in the royal drama. Set to air on PBS at 10:00 Pm on Sunday, April 27, 2025, this episode dives deep into the complexities of power and reputation within the French court.

As the episode unfolds, the royal couple places their hopes on the indictment of Rohan, believing it will quell the rising unrest among the aristocracy. The tension builds as the trial progresses, showcasing the intricate dynamics of loyalty and betrayal that define the court. Viewers can expect a mix of political maneuvering and personal conflicts, all set against the backdrop of a society on the brink of change.

However, the outcome of the trial takes an unexpected turn. Rohan’s exoneration brings relief, but it comes at a cost. A false testimony surfaces, casting a shadow over Marie Antoinette’s reputation. This twist adds layers to her character,...

On Sunday April 13 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

The Pursuit of Happiness Season 2 Episode 4 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “The Pursuit of Happiness,” promises to delve into the complexities of royal life and personal sacrifice. Set against the backdrop of the opulent yet tumultuous world of 18th-century France, this episode explores the tensions between the king and his queen.

In this episode, Louis demands that Marie Antoinette change her portrait, a decision that ignites outrage among the court and the public. This demand highlights the challenges that come with being a queen, where personal expression often clashes with royal expectations. The portrait symbolizes more than just an image; it represents Marie Antoinette’s identity and her struggles to fit into the role assigned to her.

As the episode unfolds, Louis begins to understand the many sacrifices that Marie Antoinette has made for the sake of the crown. This realization...

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Enemies Assemble,” promises to be a gripping continuation of the royal drama. Set to air on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at 10:00 Pm on PBS, this episode dives deep into the emotional turmoil faced by Marie Antoinette as she grapples with the reality of her pregnancy. The weight of expectation and the pressures of the royal court add layers of complexity to her situation, making it difficult for her to embrace this new chapter in her life.

Meanwhile, the episode also explores the plight of Rohan, who finds himself locked away in the infamous Bastille. His imprisonment raises questions about loyalty and betrayal, as the political landscape in France becomes increasingly treacherous. Rohan’s character arc adds tension to the narrative, as viewers wonder how his circumstances will affect the broader story of the court and its intrigues.

“Enemies Assemble” promises to blend personal struggles with political drama,...

On Sunday April 6 2025, PBS broadcasts Marie-Antoinette!

Treacherous Legacy Season 2 Episode 3 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Treacherous Legacy,” promises to delve deeper into the personal struggles and political tensions of the French court. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in history, this episode will explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for power.

In “Treacherous Legacy,” Marie Antoinette finds herself in a precarious position as she seeks to protect her future and that of her children. The pressures of being queen weigh heavily on her, and she must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics. Her determination to secure her family’s legacy will lead to difficult choices and unexpected alliances.

Meanwhile, Louis XVI faces his own crisis as doubts arise regarding the paternity of their child. This revelation shakes the foundation of their marriage and raises questions about trust and fidelity. Louis’s insecurities could have far-reaching consequences,...

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “The Pursuit of Happiness,” promises to bring a mix of drama and emotion to viewers. Set to air at 10:00 Pm on Sunday, April 13, 2025, on PBS, this episode dives into the complexities of the royal marriage between Louis and Marie Antoinette.

In this episode, Louis demands a change to Marie Antoinette’s portrait, a request that ignites outrage among the court and the public. This decision reflects the pressures that come with royal life and the expectations placed on Marie Antoinette as a queen. As the story unfolds, Louis begins to see the sacrifices his wife has made for their marriage and the kingdom.

“The Pursuit of Happiness” explores themes of love, duty, and the struggle for personal identity within the confines of royalty. It highlights the tension between public perception and private feelings, making it a compelling watch for fans of historical drama.

The king is trying his best to make amends with the bitter aristocracy in Marie Antoinette Season 2, and the queen is rebelling against it. TV Insider is debuting an exclusive first look at Season 2 Episode 3 of the PBS drama, airing this Sunday, April 6. In it, Louis (Louis Cunningham) welcomes his cousin, Chartres (Oscar Lesage), back to Versailles, a controversial move in Marie Antoinette’s (Emilia Schüle) eyes. She sees Chartres as a traitor. Chartres is a man scorned in Season 2 following his rejected romantic feelings for Marie Antoinette and his subsequent banishment from Versailles in Season 1. Now that his father has died, resulting in him inheriting “the largest fortune in France,” as Louis warns in the scene above, he has the power to elevate the “seditious Palais-Royal into a court to rival Versailles,” as Guy Henry‘s Vergennes says. Louis is keeping France’s dire financial situation secret this season.

The upcoming episode of “Marie-Antoinette,” titled “Treacherous Legacy,” promises to be a gripping installment in the series. Set to air on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 10:00 Pm on PBS, this episode dives deep into the tumultuous world of the French court. With political intrigue and personal drama at the forefront, viewers can expect a captivating narrative that explores the complexities of loyalty and trust.

In this episode, Marie Antoinette finds herself in a precarious situation as she strives to protect her future. The pressures of the royal family weigh heavily on her, and the stakes have never been higher. Her determination to secure her legacy will lead her to make choices that could have far-reaching consequences. The audience will witness her struggle as she navigates the treacherous waters of court life, where every decision can alter her fate.

Meanwhile, Louis’s growing doubts about the paternity of their child add another...

Everyone knows where the story of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI leads. Marie Antoinette Season 2 triggers “the beginning of the end,” according to star Louis Cunningham. Season 2 returns Sunday, March 23 on PBS after the premiere of Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light. In it, “Marie Antoinette knows that her enemies are waiting in the wings to destroy her,” PBS teases of the period drama starring Emilia Schüle as the infamous queen of France. “At the height of their power, Marie Antoinette and Louis face an unprecedented financial crisis. The incessant attacks of Provence [Jack Archer] and Chartres [Oscar Lesage] stir up the hatred of the nobles while disastrous consequences loom with the Diamond Necklace Affair. From Versailles to the Palais-Royal, the revolt rumbles on.” The royal couple begins in a relatively good place in Season 2, but their relationship, as Cunningham teases, will reverberate through the whole of France.

Disney+ has ordered “Call My Agent Berlin,” a German remake of the hit French series revolving around the world of talent agents.

Directed by Boris Kunz, Laura Lackmann and Johann Buchholz, the German version of “Call My Agent” tells the story of the “Stern” actors agency and its agents.

The local cast is headlined by Moritz Bleibtreu, Nilam Farooq, Iris Berben, Veronica Ferres, Katja Riemann, Heiner Lauterbach, Frederick Lau, Heike Makatsch, Emilia Schüle, Kostja Ullmann, Jürgen Vogel, Alicia von Rittberg, Max von der Groeben and Florence Kasumba. The series just finished filming and will launch in the fall.

It’s produced by Johann Buchholz and Henning Kamm at haFriday Film GmbH, together with Wild Bunch Germany GmbH.

“Call My Agent Berlin” starts after the sudden death of founder Richard Stern. “Everything is at stake: the agency is on the verge of bankruptcy, so the staff must attract new talent in the shortest possible time,...

It’s been nearly two years since Marie Antoinette debuted on PBS in March 2023. At long last, PBS has announced the Season 2 premiere date for the lavish period drama. Marie Antoinette continues to chronicle the life of one of history’s most influential and controversial figures. Emilia Schüle returns as the title character, Marie Antoinette, and Louis Cunningham reprises his role as Louis XVI. The series, a Canal+ Creation Originale in association with Capa Drama (Newen Studios), Banijay Studios France, and Beside Productions, invites audiences to peek behind the curtain of the personal and political life of the last Queen of France. Here, we break down all the latest updates on Season 2, including the trailer, release schedule and episode description for each episode, cast and plot details, and more. Plus, could this be the final season given the history it covers? Here’s everything we know so far. When does Marie Antoinette Season 2 come out?...

Argentinian filmmaker Luis Ortega’s Venice title Kill The Jockey, German filmmaker Nora Fingscheidt’s The Outrun starring Saoirse Ronan and a series of special spotlight screenings including Stephen Frears’ The Grifters and Damon Gameau’s climate-change documentary 2040 are among the titles that will screen at the 13th edition of the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (Emiff).

Alonso Ruizpalacios’ La Cocina will open the festival on October 30, while Thomas Napper’s Widow Clicquot, the biopic of the grand dame of champagne, Veuve Clicquot, starring Haley Bennett and Tom Sturridge, will close it on November 5.

Annette Bening will collect the...

Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of Banijay Entertainment, has closed a significant scripted package deal with Spain’s Movistar Plus+, the country’s leading pay TV and SVOD service.

The agreement, encompassing over 60 hours of drama content, includes several of Banijay Rights banner titles at the London TV Screenings this year. Among them are the BAFTA and Golden Globe-winning “Wolf Hall,” Steven Knight’s “This Town,” the upcoming “The Hardacres,” historical drama “Marie Antoinette,” BAFTA award-winning “The Sixth Commandment” and the coming-of-age series “My Mad Fat Diary.”

Upscale mass audience entertainment, the dramas carefully observed social context makes them a good fit for Movistar Plus+, whose auteur-driven original series enrolling often some of the best movie directors in Spain, aim to be part of Spain’s cultural conversation.

Marion Vergnaud, senior VP Iberia, Italy and Malta, Banijay Rights, who brokered the deal, said: “From the inner workings of the...

The American-Israeli director Niv Kleiner (Central Valley) will write and direct the Berlin-set The Liver, a black comedy about a down-on-his-luck DJ trying to secure an organ transplant.

German-Swiss actor Raphaël Tschudi (Anuk III) will play Henri, a former DJ who landed in the German capital many years ago and still barely speaks German, who desperately needs a new liver. When he fails to find a donor among his old Berlin Club buddies, he turns to the black market to find a fitting organ. But the past he’s been running away from will soon catch up with him and he’ll need to make peace with his worst enemies to save his own life.

Emilia Schüle, star of the Canal+ series Marie Antoinette, co-stars, alongside Fauda actress Laetitia Eido, and German actors Winfried Hochholdinger (Babylon Berlin) and Jan Josef Liefers (Tatort, The Tower).

“The Liver is a small, fine...

Day two of the MIPCOM international television market brought a slew of new deals and a major corporate acquisition.

French group Newen Studios, owned by commercial channel TF1, announced it had secured a majority stake in Marie Guillaumond’s French production company Felicita Films. The boutique group has some 10 projects in development for local French channels and streaming platforms, and is currently in postproduction on A la Hauteur, a feature film directed by Delphine and Muriel Coulin starring Vincent Lindon.

On the sales side, the BBC pre-bought season two of period drama Marie Antoinette from Banijay Rights. The Canal+ drama, created by Deborah Davis, stars Emilia Schüle (Ku’damm 56/ 63) as the avant-garde French queen and Louis Cunningham (Bridgerton) as the King Louis XVI. The first season of Marie Antoinette sold to more than 147 territories, including to PBS Distribution in the U.S.

“Following the great success of series one, we...

Welcome to The Hollywood Reporter’s inaugural Travel Week! Hollywood stars and insiders log millions of miles for filming, festivals and wherever else the red carpet takes them, so why not look to these frequent flyers for travel inspiration? With summer destinations still beckoning (and plenty of time to plan for fall trips), this week we’re highlighting insider-approved essentials, style and travel tips, deals and more. Allons-y!

With its attractive location in the heart of Rome in a beautifully restored historic building, the new Bulgari Hotel Roma in the Campo Marzio district has all the features to become one of the best hotels in the world. Among its features are gastronomic offerings curated by three-Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito, sophisticated interior design and public spaces that include the most extraordinary panoramic terrace with 360-degree views of Rome.

The building that houses the hotel was built between 1936 and 1938 and inaugurated in...

Award

Paramount+ and Tving‘s Korean series “Bargain” has won the critics’ choice award at the Seriencamp Festival in Cologne. In April, “Bargain” became the first-ever Korean series to win best screenplay at the Canneseries Festival in France.

The series stars actors Jun Jong-seo (“Money Heist: Korea”) and Jin Seon-kyu (“Extreme Job”) and is an adaptation of director Lee Chung-hyun’s 2015 short film of the same name. Director Jun Woo-sung, who was part of the production team of the short, picked up the story and developed it into a six-part series. “Bargain” revolves around a group of strangers who gather at a remote motel with ulterior motives – seeking to bargain. Unlike the original film, the series follows the characters after an unexpected earthquake traps them inside the building. With no one to trust, they must find a way to survive.

“Bargain” is developed by Paramount+ and Tving, out of Paramount...

“Marie Antoinette” is the BBC, Canal+ produced historical drama TV series, created by Deborah Davis and directed by Pete Travis, Geoffrey Enthoven, starring Emilia Schüle, Louis Cunningham, Jack Archer, Jasmine Blackborow, Gaia Weiss, James Purefoy, Marthe Keller, Roxane Duran, Nathan Willcocks, Crystal Shepherd-Cross, Caroline Piette, Oscar Lesage, Liah O'Prey, Yoli Fuller, and Martijn Lakemeier, airing in North America on PBS:

“…based on the life of the last queen of France before the ‘French Revolution’, who was 14 years old when she became ‘Dauphine of France’…

“…upon her marriage to the heir apparent, ‘Louis-Auguste’…”

Season Two is currently in production.

Click the images to enlarge…...

Forget “will they or won’t they?” In the PBS import Marie Antoinette, a tongue-in-rouged-cheek take on a period biography, the question is when will the diffident young Dauphin, later King Louis XVI, take his teenage Austrian bride, Marie Antoinette, to bed? Their relationship is shown to be shrug at first sight, but the gossipy 18th-century French court hangs on these political pawns’ every move. After all, as Marie’s mother the Empress Maria Theresa (Marthe Keller) impresses upon her before sending her away, “Your job is to deliver the heir.” Yeah, but first things first. For much of the stylized first season, written by The Favourite’s Deborah Davis and ending well before the fateful Reign of Terror, Louis (gawky Louis Cunningham) flees at the very sight of Marie (a splendidly saucy Emilia Schüle) in a sexual panic. She’s frustrated by his rejection, but he’s just sad and pitiful,...

Fans of Canal+’s series Marie Antoinette are going to have their cake and eat it too as Variety reports that the title has been granted a second season. Airing in the United States via PBS, the Emilia Schüle (Ku’damm 56/63) and Louis Cunningham (Bridgerton) led series will continue to be backed by The Favourite writer Deborah Davis. Meanwhile, audiences can expect to see next season’s vision come together courtesy of The Last Kingdom and Doctor Who director Ed Bazalgette who will kick off the next chapter by helming the first four episodes.

When it comes to a historical figure as well-known — or notorious, perhaps, depending on your point of view — as Marie Antoinette, the pressure is on for any new adaptations of her story to put a new spin on things. There's also the demand to provide new incentives for audiences to check out a story they've heard already, or to lure them away from a favorite retelling to give a new one a try. Such is the burden placed on PBS' upcoming period drama Marie Antoinette. Unfortunately, despite what was likely the best of intentions from everyone involved, and a compelling turn by star Emilia Schüle as the doomed future Queen of France, the series winds up feeling much like Versailles itself: outwardly glamorous and luxurious, concealing unpalatable excess beneath.

French pay TV group Canal+ has ordered a second season of its dazzling historical drama “Marie Antoinette.” BAFTA-nominated Ed Bazalgette will direct the first four episodes.

While Deborah Davis (“The Favourite”) still on board as creator, season 2’s writing team is led by Louise Ironside, joined by Charlotte Wolf, Francesca Forristal and Andrew Bambfield.

The series, which is being backed by Banijay and Newen, is expected to start filming in the fall. The new season will continue telling the epic story of the avant-garde young queen, played by Emilia Schüle (“Ku’damm 56/ 63”), with Louis Cunningham (“Bridgerton”) as the king of France, Louis XVI.

Commissioned by Canal+’s Creation Originale unit, the upcoming season will portray how the royal couple at their height of their power faced an unprecedented financial crisis. The incessant attacks of Provence and Chartres against the royal couple stirred up the hatred of the nobles while disastrous consequences.

Banijay Rights has closed further sales of “Marie Antoinette,” a dazzling costume drama created and written by Deborah Davis (“The Favorite”).

“Marie Antoinette” tells the story of the avant-garde young queen, played by Emilia Schüle. An Austrian noble, Marie Antoinette was married off to Louis-Auguste, the future king of France, while she was still a girl.

Produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens, the series was picked up by Antenna Plus (Ant1+) in Greece, Ceska Televize in the Czech Republic, Directv in Latin America and Canada’s national public broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada for CBC Gem (English)and Ici Télé and Ici Tou.tv (French).

The richly drawn series has also been acquired by RTÉ in Ireland, Sky Italia, Radio & Television Slovakia – Rtvs and Viaplay across all Nordic and Baltic countries and the Netherlands, among others.

Davis penned “Marie Antoinette” with Louise Ironside (“The Split”), Avril E. Russell (“All...

Grab some cake and get ready to feast your eyes on a new PBS series centered around the legendary Marie Antoinette. Dropping on March 19, the scripted period drama will tell the captivating and timeless story of the last queen of France. Starring Emilia Schüle (Berlin Dance School) as the titular historical icon, the series will also star Bridgerton’s Louis Cunningham as the dauphin-turned-King of France, Louis XVI.

Whether you’re looking forward to returning favorites like Sanditon or the prequel spinoff Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, television is shining a light on the leading ladies of period dramas in 2023. Here are a few to look out for. Hannah Waddingham in Tom Jones No, of course the Ted Lasso star isn’t playing the title role in this Masterpiece adaptation of Henry Fielding’s colorful The History of Tom Jones, A Foundling — but Waddingham does have a title: Lady Bellaston, lusty society schemer and thwarter of true love. India Amarteifio in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Or, When Charlotte Met King George… Their love story unfolds in this before-she-was-crowned limited series prequel about Bridgerton’s imperious, gossip-loving monarch. Bonus: We’ll see how the ton, that rigidly defined high society, came to be. (Credit: PBS) Emilia Schüle in Marie Antoinette Young, rebellious but très élégant! ...

PBS will bring back six series and premiere two period dramas in 2023, which includes the debut of Tom Jones on Masterpiece that’s based on the 1749 novel The History of Tom Jones, A Foundling.

“PBS continues to bring dramas that appeal to the entire family, from mysteries like Miss Scarlet and the Duke on Masterpiece and Vienna Blood to coming-of-age stories like Sanditon on Masterpiece and La Otra Mirada. This season’s lineup of period dramas is our most extensive to date, with hours of captivating storytelling from January to May,” says Maria Bruno Ruiz, Vice President Program Scheduling at PBS. “Not only do we have returning seasons of our most anticipated dramas, but we also have two new premieres that audiences are sure to fall in love with: Tom Jones on Masterpiece and Marie Antoinette. Both bring incredible new talent to PBS. I can’t wait for audiences to watch!

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PBS has picked up U.S. rights to Marie Antoinette, a new historic epic from Canal+ on the life of the iconic French queen.

Banijay Rights, which is handling international sales for the series, announced the deal ahead of the international TV market MIPCOM Cannes, which kicks off Monday.

German actress Emilia Schüle stars as Antoinette in this historic drama created and written by The Favourite screenwriter Deborah Davis. The series depicts the queen, who left Austria at a young age to marry the Dauphin of France, as an incredibly modern and avant-garde figure for her time. Louise Ironside (The Split), Avril E. Russell (All on a Summer’s Day) and Chloë Moss (Run Sister Run) co-wrote the series, which is directed by Pete Travis (Bloodlands) and Geoffrey Enthoven (Children of Love).

Claude Chelli and Margaux Balsan of Capa Drama, Stéphanie Chartreux of...

Banijay Rights has pre-sold “Marie-Antoinette,” the eight-part period series, to Pps Distribution in the U.S. The series will have its North American premiere in the Spring.

The deal marks the latest international deal for the show which is produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens. The series was commissioned by Canal +’s Creation Originale label and follows recent pre-sales to the U.K. public broadcaster BBC2 and BBC First in Australia.

Created and written by Deborah Davis (“The Favourite”), “Marie Antoinette” tells the story of the avant-garde young queen, played by Emilia Schüle.

An Austrian noble, Marie Antoinette was married off to Louis-Auguste, the future king of France, while she was still a girl. She was sent there with one goal: Deliver an heir. But nothing went as planned. Her husband refused to touch her for seven years and Marie-Antoinette’s rebellious ways wreaked havoc on the royal family.

’The Favourite’ writer Deborah Davis is creator and co-writer of the eight-part series.

Marie Antoinette will head from Versailles to the US with Banijay Rights announcing the pre-sale of the French-produced English-language prestige costume drama to PBS Distribution on the eve of Mipcom.

The eight-part series from creator and writer Deborah Davis, best known for The Favourite, will premiere in North America in spring 2023. Produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens, the Canal+ Creation Originale has already been pre-sold to UK public broadcaster BBC2 and BBC First in Australia. It will air on Canal+ in France in October.

The Favourite writer Deborah Davis is creator and co-writer of the eight-part series.

Marie Antoinette will head from Versailles to the US with Banijay Rights announcing the pre-sale of the French-produced English-language prestige costume drama to PBS Distribution on the eve of Mipcom’s market kick-off.

The eight-part series from creator and writer Deborah Davis (The Favourite) will premiere in North America in spring 2023. Produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens, the Canal+ Creation Originale has already been pre-sold to UK public broadcaster BBC2 and BBC First in Australia. It will air on Canal+ in France in October.

On the outskirts of Paris, in a vast, industrial-looking studio in Bry-sur-Marne, the clocks have turned back to the 1770s. Opulent decor — gilded furniture, flower-adorned curtains and marble everywhere — fills the soundstage.

The atmosphere is studious on the set of “Marie-Antoinette,” a lavish French-produced costume drama created, co-written and executive produced by Deborah Davis. She’s delivering a feminist take on an infamous historical figure, best-known for apocryphally advising the starving masses to eat cake. We all know how that ended.

On screen, Marie-Antoinette hasn’t been treated better than she was at the guillotine, where she’s often depicted as a villain or a frivolous airhead.

“I found the fighter, and I loved being with her all the way through her battles,” says Davis, the Oscar-nominated writer of “The Favourite,” which focused on another queen, England’s Anne.

Emilia Schüle, a rising Russian-born German actor, plays Marie-Antoinette, an Austrian...

The production division of France’s TF1 now houses more than 40 labels in Europe.

Newen Studios has added Nordic film and TV company Anagram to its rapidly expanding European group of production labels.

Newen Studios’ CEO Romain Bessi announced the acquisition on October 6 at a press conference in Paris, where he outlined the French production giant’s strategy and its latest international titles.

He said Newen has snapped up “a very meaningful share” of Anagram, whose chairman and CEO Mats Alders will continue to lead the company.

Anagram is one of the leading independent production companies in Scandinavia.

Newen Studios’ Danish entity,...

Canal+, France’s leading pay TV group, has signed distribution deals with Universal and Sony to ramp up its programming of U.S. movies.

Under the pact, Canal+ now has access to the studios’ new films six months after their releases, a spokesperson told Variety. Sony’s “Spiderman : No Way Home” is currently being broadcast on Canal+’s linear pay TV channels, along with its transactional VOD platform, My Canal.

The news was teased by Maxime Saada, Canal+ Group’s chair and CEO, during the company’s upbeat press conference on Sept. 14, which was held at their posh headquarters in Paris. Saada, who recently joined the management board of Vivendi, Canal Plus Group’s parent company, said the outfit already boasts partnerships with Fox, Disney and Warner, as well as Paramount.

Canal+ also has a six-month window on French movies. The company previously had to wait 9 months after the...

Netflix Greenlights Swedish Comedy ‘One More Time’ Starring Hedda Stiernstedt

Netflix has greenlit a Groundhog Day-esque Swedish comedy film from Student Academy Award-winning Jonatan Etzler starring Beforeigners’ Hedda Stiernstedt. In One More Time, Amelia, played by Stiernstedt, is hit by a bus on the night of her 40th birthday and wakes up back in 2002, on her 18th birthday, with the chance to relive her best day and make her life the perfect vision of what she’d intended it to be. But when she starts to wake up again and again on this same day, she has to figure out the key to what she needs to fix, in order to literally leave the past behind and return to the present day. Airing next year, the feature is written by Tove Forsman and Sofie Forsman and directed by Etzler who won a Student Academy Award for...

Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of Banijay, has licensed eight-part historical drama “Marie Antoinette” to BBC First in Australia.

Created and written by Deborah Davis (“The Favourite”), “Marie Antoinette” tells the story of the incredibly modern and avant-garde young queen, played by Emilia Schüle (“Ku’damm 56/ 63”). It was previously licensed to U.K. public broadcaster BBC2.

Marie Antoinette was barely 14 years old when she left Austria to marry the Dauphin of France. Growing from a stubborn young princess navigating the rules of the French court under pressure to continue the Bourbon line, to a true fashion icon, she impressed with her charisma, and recreated life in Versailles in her image: free, independent and feminist. Even with rumours undermining her reputation, the notorious figure was able to defeat her enemies at the Versailles court with courage and dignity.

The show was co-written by Louise Ironside (“The Split”), Avril E. Russell...

On Saturday, film and TV funder Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg celebrated the six films that it funded running in the official program of the Cannes Film Festival.

These were Ruben Östlund’s “Triangle of Sadness,” in Competition, Ali Abbasi’s “Holy Spider,” in Competition, Emily Atef’s “More Than Ever,” in Un Certain Regard, Mia Hansen-Løve’s “Un beau matin,” in Directors’ Fortnight, Sergei Loznitsa’s “The Natural History of Destruction,” in Special Screening, and Mantas Kvedaravicius’ “Mariupolis 2,” in Special Screening.

Commenting on the role Medienboard played in funding the films in Cannes, the organization’s chief Kirsten Niehuus said: “Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg and other film funds play an important role in sustaining high quality cinema in Europe and in international co-productions around the world.”

Speaking about the type of films Medienboard likes to fund, she said: “Not very original but true – we prefer films that bring something original to an audience.

Mary Berry BBC Series

Great British Bake Off alum and Britain’s Best Home Cook judge Mary Berry is reteaming with BBC One for Mary Berry’s Fantastic Feasts. The three-part series, which will also air on iPlayer, sees Berry help novice cooks who want to surprise a loved one with a great meal, teaching them a selection of achievable, impressive dishes. On the day of the special event, Berry and two celebrity helpers will be on hand to assist. Mary Berry’s Fantastic Feasts is produced by Rumpus Media. Emily Hudd and Kelly Sparks are executive producers. Applications for aspiring cooks are open and an air date has yet to be set.

Viacom Buys Chilean TV Network

ViacomCBS Networks International has closed previously announced acquisition of Chilevisión from WarnerMedia. The acquisition includes Chilevisión’s free-to-air television network, which is Chile...

U.K. broadcaster BBC Two has pre-bought historical drama “Marie Antoinette,” created and written by Deborah Davis (“The Favourite”).

The eight-part series tells the story of the modern and avant-garde young queen, played by Emilia Schüle (“Ku’damm 63”), who was barely 14 years old when she left Austria to marry the Dauphin of France. Growing from a stubborn young princess navigating the rules of the French court under pressure to continue the Bourbon line, to a fashion icon, she fought rumors undermining her reputation.

Produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens, the acquisition marks the first international deal for the Canal Plus original. The deal was negotiated by Chris Stewart, senior VP of sales for the U.K. and Ireland at Banijay Rights.

Writers on the drama also include Louise Ironside (“The Split”), Avril E. Russell (“All on a Summer’s Day”) and Chloë Moss (“Run Sister Run...

Filming has begun on “Marie Antoinette,” a new, eight-part drama for Canal Plus Creation Originale.

The story of the incredibly modern young queen was created and written by Deborah Davis (“The Favourite”), who worked alongside co-writers Louise Ironside (“The Split”), Avril E. Russell (“All on a Summer’s Day”) and Chloë Moss (“Run Sister Run”). It is directed by Pete Travis (“Bloodlands”) and Geoffrey Enthoven (“Children of Love”).

Russia-born German actress Emilia Schüle (“Ku’damm 56”) will star as the titular monarch.

The series is produced by Alban Étienne and Stéphanie Chartreux of Banijay Studios France, Claude Chelli and Aude Albano of Capa Drama, and Christophe Toulemonde at Les Gens. It is distributed globally by Banijay Rights.

Filming will take place in evocative historical places, including the Palace of Versailles, Vaux-le-Vicomte, Lésigny, Champs, Voisins and Bry-sur-Marne.

“We are ready to enchant viewers with stunning scenery from beautiful locations across France and illustrate this audacious,...