Netflix Unveils New German Film on Migrant Rescue Operation

A new Netflix film inspired by the true story of German NGO Jugend Rettet and its ship, the Iuventa, which saved thousands of migrants in the Mediterranean before it was impounded by Italian authorities in 2016, is in production.

The film, currently untitled, chronicles the journey of a group of young Berliners who find themselves unable to stand by and watch as countless refugees lose their lives attempting to reach Europe by sea. They launch a crowdfunding campaign to buy an old ship and venture to sea to rescue migrants.

Netflix offered a first look on Wednesday of its lead Louis Hofmann (Dark, All the Light We Cannot See), following the start of production in Berlin. The movie is now being shot in Malta.

Alongside lead actor Louis Hofmann, the cast also includes Mala Emde, Katharina Stark, Frederick Lau, Maria Dragus, Trevor Magaya, Kathy Etoa, Felice, Saibon Wang, Joone Dankou, Merlin von Garnier, Luisa-Céline Gaffron and Omid Memar.

Directed by Markus Goller, the film’s screenplay is co-written by Oliver Ziegenbalg in collaboration with Michele Cinque. Oscar winners Christian Goldbeck and Volker Bertelmann were brought on for production design and music (the winning team from All Quiet on the Western Front), with Frankie DeMarco coordinating the cinematography.

Producers Christopher Zwickler with Flute Film, and Markus Goller and Oliver Ziegenbalg with their Sunnysideup Filmproduktion are responsible for the production.