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There was some disgruntled chatter within parts of the German contingent at this year’s Berlinale about what had been perceived as a shortage of local projects in the festival’s main competition lineup. Much of that criticism was overblown, as German filmmakers were positively represented across the wider festival programme. On the ground in Berlin, it was also difficult to ignore the increased presence of a new and diverse generation of local artists.

Chief among them was Lamin Leroy Gibba, who was one of the buzziest names at the festival. The 31-year-old is the showrunner behind Black Fruit (Schwarze Früchte), the breakout series of 2024 in Germany.

A co-production between Jünglinge Film, Studio Zentral, and Ard Degeto, Black Fruit debuted at last year’s Tribeca Film Festival before a highly publicized release on Ard in Germany. The show is currently screening at the BFI Flare Film Festival in London. Zdf Studios...

Exclusive: Zdf Studios has acquired international distribution rights to Black Fruit (Schwarze Früchte), the buzzy debut series from actor-writer Lamin Leroy Gibba.

A co-production between Jünglinge Film, Studio Zentral, and Ard Degeto, Black Fruit debuted at last year’s Tribeca Film Festival before a highly-publicized release on Ard in Germany.

Set in contemporary Hamburg, the series follows the journey of mid-twenty Lalo (Gibba) as he grapples with the sudden loss of his father, embarking on a tumultuous path of impulsive decisions that reverberate through his life and those around him. Alongside his ambitious best friend Karla, Lalo strives to define his identity amidst societal pressures and personal struggles. The show is one of the first serial productions in Germany to chronicle the lives of Queer people of color.

Gibba stars in the series and also serves as the showrunner. Writers on the show include Sophia Ayissi, Naomi Kelechi Odhiambo, Lisa Tracy Michalik,...