Tamtam Film Doubles Down on Political and Historical Dramas
German production company Tamtam Film, led by Dirk Decker and Andrea Schütte, is set to begin filming two distinct projects this year: the political drama Legacy and the historical drama The Closed Book. This signals a continued focus on character-driven narratives tackling complex themes.
Belarusian Story Finds Polish Star Power
Legacy, the feature debut of Aliaksei Paluyan, will star Polish actor Bartosz Bielenia. The film centers on a young architect’s politicization amidst the 2020 Belarusian protests and the resulting family conflict. Filming is scheduled for August and September in Warsaw and the Bialystok region of Poland, near the Belarusian border.
The production is actively seeking Belarusian actors currently in exile to enhance the film’s authenticity, with Bielenia himself taking Belarusian language lessons for the role. This casting approach reflects a broader trend in filmmaking – prioritizing lived experience and cultural accuracy.
From Documentary to Dramatic Reconstruction
Legacy builds upon Paluyan’s 2021 documentary, Courage, which premiered at the Berlinale. This transition from documentary to fictionalized narrative is a common strategy for filmmakers seeking to broaden the reach and emotional impact of important stories. The screenplay is a collaboration between Paluyan, Karamizade (editor of Courage), and Esther Bernstorff, a co-writer of Frank &. Louis.
Scandinavian Setting for Historical Drama
Tamtam Film is too a minority co-producer on The Closed Book, a historical drama set in Copenhagen at the end of the 19th century. Starring Alba August and Gustav Lindh, the film explores themes of freedom and unconventional relationships. Shooting will begin in May in Copenhagen studios and on location.
This project continues Tamtam’s collaboration with SF Studios and director Charlotte Sieling, following their work on Sieling’s 2023 film, Way Home. Post-production for The Closed Book will accept place in Hamburg at Post Republic, potentially reuniting the team with production designer Seth Turner.
The Rise of Co-Productions in European Cinema
Both Legacy and The Closed Book are co-productions, highlighting a growing trend in European cinema. Co-productions allow filmmakers to pool resources, access diverse funding sources, and tap into wider talent pools. Legacy is a co-production with Poland’s Lava Films and Living Pictures Production, while The Closed Book involves SF Studios.
Authenticity and Casting: A Growing Priority
The deliberate casting of Belarusian actors in exile for Legacy underscores a growing emphasis on authenticity in filmmaking. Producers are increasingly recognizing the value of incorporating actors with direct connections to the stories being told, enhancing the emotional resonance and cultural sensitivity of their projects.
Did you know?
The Berlinale, where Aliaksei Paluyan’s documentary Courage premiered, is one of the world’s leading film festivals, known for showcasing politically and socially relevant cinema.
FAQ
Q: What is Tamtam Film known for?
A: Tamtam Film is a German production company focusing on character-driven dramas with social and political relevance.
Q: Who stars in Legacy?
A: Bartosz Bielenia stars in Legacy.
Q: Where will The Closed Book be filmed?
A: The Closed Book will be filmed in Copenhagen.
Q: What is the significance of the casting choices for Legacy?
A: The casting of Belarusian actors in exile aims to enhance the film’s authenticity and provide a platform for voices directly impacted by the events depicted.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on film festival lineups like Berlinale and Sundance for emerging filmmakers and politically charged narratives.
Explore more articles on independent film production and European cinema to stay informed about the latest trends and developments.
