Frank Spotnitz’ Big Light Productions is partnering with German studio, Constantin Film to develop a high-end drama series following the characters and events surrounding the Nuremberg Trials.
The project sees Constantin Film and Big Light Productions combining their expertise to deliver an expansive new drama about the prosecution of Nazi officials after World War II, the first time in history that people were held accountable for war crimes. The series explores characters from all sides of the trials, showing how not only justice was at stake but the global balance of power.
“This series is a real powerhouse,” Big Light’s Frank Spotnitz said. “It’s an investigative mystery, a suspense thriller set both in a courtroom and on the global stage, and one of the most searing moral dramas imaginable. The characters and the issues all seem startlingly relevant and contemporary.”
“We are delighted to partner with Constantin Film on such an important and timely series,” added Emily Feller of Big Light. “This is truly landmark television, drama that not only makes for compelling entertainment but asks important questions that the world is still grappling with today.”
“On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allies, but the world remained in a state of unrest and global powerplay. Our show describes the intricate and multi-layered chess game how the United States took the reins on establishing the post-war power structure and how the Nuremberg Trials became the tipping point that signaled to the world that law and order will be restored,” said Robert Kulzer of Constantin Film.
“Following the catastrophe of the Second World War, the Nuremberg Trials were an epochal event. The Americans and Europeans involved in forging justice were both larger than life and all too human. I’m humbled to be working with Constantin Film and Big Light to bring this important story to life,” remarked Ron Maxwell.
Constantin Film was nominated for an Oscar for its 2004 film Downfall which covered the final hours and collapse of the German regime. Most recently, Constantin Film’s The Conference, a historically accurate, haunting drama about a meeting that was part of planning the Holocaust, garnered international recognition and, among others, was awarded “Best Feature Film” at the 2022 New York Festivals. The film also won the German Television Prize for “Best TV Film” and “Best Screenplay Fiction”.
Big Light Productions specializes in producing returning and limited dramas for the global market, including for Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC, Rai, CBS and Audible.
The series will be executive produced by Oliver Berben and Robert Kulzer for Constantin Film, Frank Spotnitz and Creative Director Emily Feller (Leonardo, Medici, Trust Me, Ordinary Lies) for Big Light, and Ron Maxwell (Gettysburg) along with Jeff Berg of Northside Services.
Big Light is represented by WME and attorney Jared Levine at Yorn Levine.
Jon Creamer
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