Rise of the Raven: A new epic series set to premiere at Mipcom
A grand historical saga
Rise of the Raven, the much-anticipated European event series, is set to make its world premiere at the Cannes content trade fair, Mipcom, on October 22. This series, produced by the renowned Robert Lantos, known for works like “Sunshine” and “Eastern Promises,” promises to be a monumental addition to the historical drama genre.
A glimpse into the series
Beta Film, the powerhouse behind “Babylon Berlin” and “The Swarm,” has released an exclusive teaser that showcases the grandeur and intensity of Rise of the Raven. The series, spanning ten episodes, delves into the extraordinary real-life story of Hungarian army commander Janos Hunyadi. Portrayed by the talented Gellért L. Kádár, Hunyadi’s tale is one of resilience and heroism as he defends Europe from the advancing Ottoman Empire.
The historical backdrop
The series reaches its climax with the historic Battle of Belgrade in 1456. Hunyadi, leading a significantly outnumbered force, achieved a miraculous victory against the Ottomans. This triumph was so significant that Pope Callixtus III ordered churches worldwide to ring their bells at noon, a tradition that continues to this day.
A star-studded premiere
The world premiere at Mipcom will be graced by key cast members, including Vivien Rudjer, who plays Hunyadi’s formidable wife Erzsébet, and Franciska Törocskik, portraying Mara, Hunyadi’s first love. Other notable attendees include Mariann Hermányi, Ernõ Fekete, and Elena Rusconi. The series is directed by a team of acclaimed directors, including Robert Dornhelm, Orsi Nagypal, and Attila Szász, with Balázs Lengyel serving as the showrunner.
Production and distribution
Rise of the Raven is a collaborative effort, produced by Twin Media, HG Media, MR Film, and Beta Film. It is co-produced by Hungary’s TV2 Network and Austrian public broadcaster ORF, with support from the National Film Institute of Hungary. The series is set to air in 2025, with Beta Film handling international distribution.
A hero’s journey
The series traces Hunyadi’s journey from a village boy to a fearless warrior and ultimately, the savior of Europe. Robert Lantos, reflecting on the series, shared his lifelong fascination with the Noon Bell and how Ban Mor’s best-selling novels provided the perfect foundation to tell this epic story.
A unique cinematic experience
Koby Gal-Raday, one of the executive producers, emphasized the series’ relevance to contemporary audiences worldwide. He praised the exceptional talent both in front of and behind the camera, which has culminated in a unique cinematic experience, unprecedented in European television.
A milestone in European television
Lucy Smith, director of Mipcom Cannes and Mip London, expressed her excitement about hosting the premiere. She highlighted the series’ ambitious storytelling, high production values, and the exceptional creative team, making Rise of the Raven a landmark in European television.
For those eager to get a sneak peek, you can watch the teaser for Rise of the Raven.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, Rise of the Raven stands out as a must-watch. The historical context, combined with the personal stories of the characters, promises a rich narrative that goes beyond mere entertainment. The series not only brings to life a pivotal moment in history but also explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.
The involvement of a diverse and talented cast, along with a team of experienced directors, ensures that the series will be both visually stunning and emotionally engaging. The teaser alone hints at the high production values and the meticulous attention to detail that has gone into recreating the 15th-century setting.
For those who appreciate historical dramas, Rise of the Raven offers a deep dive into a lesser-known but incredibly significant chapter of European history. The series’ ability to resonate with contemporary audiences, despite its historical setting, speaks to the timeless nature of its themes and the universal appeal of its story.
Rise of the Raven is poised to be a groundbreaking series that will captivate audiences with its epic storytelling and cinematic excellence. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of epic dramas, or simply looking for a compelling new series to watch, Rise of the Raven is one to keep on your radar.