A poignant retelling of the Swissair Flight 111 tragedy
A cinematic journey through a tragic event
The devastating crash of Swissair Flight 111 in 1998 is being brought to life in a new feature film titled “111.” This project, a collaboration between Zurich-based C-Films AG and Nova Scotia’s Auguste Content, has just commenced shooting. The film promises to delve deep into the human stories intertwined with this tragic event.
An international ensemble cast
The film boasts an impressive international cast, including Kris Holden-Ried (“Departure”), Natalie Brown (“The Strain”), Eric Keenleyside (“Superman & Lois”), Ursina Lardi (“The White Ribbon”), Anatole Taubman (“Zwingli”), Djebril Zonga (“Les Misérables”), and Fathia Youssouf (“Cuties”). This diverse group of actors is set to bring a rich tapestry of characters to the screen, each affected by the crash in unique ways.
A story of human resilience
Directed by Mexican-Swiss filmmaker Mauro Mueller (“A World for Raúl”), who co-wrote the script with U.S. screenwriter Jennie Allen, “111” aims to be more than just a disaster movie. Mueller emphasizes that the film is not about retelling the tragedy in a sensational manner but rather about creating a subtle, emotional homage to the human spirit.
“As a frequent traveler, the crash of Swissair 111 over Halifax was a deeply moving experience,” Mueller reflects. “I am fascinated by how chance encounters can turn into beautiful, formative moments or—as in this case—bring people together under tragic circumstances.”
Filming locations and production details
Principal photography began in Halifax on September 18 and will continue in Nova Scotia, as well as Zurich and its surroundings, until the end of October. The film will be released in Canada by Elevation Pictures and in Switzerland by Ascot Elite Entertainment, with Square One Entertainment handling world sales.
A global yet local narrative
Swiss producer Anne Walser of C-Films AG describes “111” as a “glocal” project—locally rooted yet global in its reach. The film tells a Swiss tragedy that involved more than two dozen nations and affected countless lives.
“The highly emotional, international story surrounding the crash of Swissair 111 seems to us to be the ideal material for the talented director, and (2013) winner of the Student Oscar, Mauro Mueller,” Walser comments.
A tribute to unity and resilience
Canadian producer Bernier adds, “The Swissair 111 tragedy not only moved Nova Scotians into mourning, it united Canada, Switzerland, and the world in the face of the unthinkable. We hope this film will remind us of the power of coming together across borders and honor the lives of those we lost.”
Support from various partners
The film is supported by several Swiss partners, including co-producer Schweizer Fernsehen SRF, the Zurich Film Foundation, the Federal Office of Culture, and Suissimage. Canadian funders include Telefilm Canada, the Nova Scotia Film & Television Incentive Fund, the Screen Nova Scotia Content Creator Fund, and the Canadian Audio Visual Certification Office.
A personal reflection
As a cinema enthusiast, the prospect of “111” is particularly intriguing. The film’s approach to storytelling—focusing on the human element rather than the disaster itself—promises a deeply moving experience. The international cast and the collaboration between Swiss and Canadian production companies highlight the global impact of the tragedy and the universal themes of loss and resilience.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can watch the trailer and find additional information on the 111 page.
This project stands as a testament to the power of cinema to bring people together, to reflect on shared experiences, and to honor those who have been affected by unimaginable events.