Croatian Crime Drama 'Red Water' to Be Co-Produced by ZDF/Arte and Beta Film
A new compelling Croatian crime series, 'Red Water,' is set to grace screens, born from a collaborative effort between Beta Film, ZDF/Arte, and Antitalent. This six-part drama, drawing inspiration from Jurica Pavičić's acclaimed novel, promises a deep dive into a mysterious disappearance set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Yugoslav Wars. The series will explore profound themes of individual accountability and national identity.
Details of the Upcoming Production
Scheduled for production in 2027, 'Red Water' adapts Jurica Pavičić's bestselling novel, which was recognized by both the Financial Times and Sunday Times among their top books of 2025. The narrative unfolds in a quaint Croatian coastal town, where a 17-year-old girl vanishes mysteriously. As official police efforts falter and national attention diverts towards the escalating Yugoslav Wars, her family embarks on their own relentless quest for truth. This decades-long search not only strains community ties but also mirrors the broader societal unraveling of a nation grappling with its past.
The creative force behind the series includes Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović, celebrated with a Caméra d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for her feature 'Murina,' who will direct. The scripts are penned by Ljubica Luković, a Canneseries-winning writer known for 'Awake,' ensuring a compelling narrative. Producing the series is the Academy Award-nominated Danijel Pek, renowned for 'The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent.'
Simon Ofenloch, a commissioning editor at ZDF/Arte, highlighted the novel's European success and critical acclaim, noting its numerous literary awards in France. He emphasized that the series will deliver a suspenseful crime story with intricate characters, also serving as a chronicle of societal transformation. Ofenloch added that it offers an authentic portrayal of Yugoslavia's final years leading up to Croatia's contemporary tourist landscape. Wolfgang Bergmann, CEO of Arte Germany, underscored the series' European essence, praising the international collaboration and shared vision among the creative teams. Anna Rohde-Seyfried of Beta Film expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the collective commitment to nurturing European stories and talent. She believes 'Red Water' will offer a thrilling and emotionally resonant journey, examining the deep impact of conflict on individual and collective identities.
This initiative represents a continuation of the successful collaborations between Beta, ZDF/Arte, and Antitalent in Central and Eastern Europe, following their work on 'The Silence' (Šutnja) and the multi-award-winning Serbian series 'Operation Sabre.' Beta Film is responsible for international distribution of 'Red Water.'
The announcement of 'Red Water' signifies a promising development for European drama, demonstrating a commitment to impactful storytelling that delves into historical and social complexities. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to reflect on past events and their enduring legacy on individuals and societies. The project's strong creative team and solid production backing suggest a series that will resonate deeply with audiences, offering both gripping entertainment and thoughtful commentary.
