Beta Film has unveiled an exhilarating trailer for “Rise of the Raven,” a grand 10-part drama series inspired by the fierce 15th-century conflict that reshaped Europe. The series will make its world premiere at Mipcom in the Grand Auditorium of Cannes’ Palais des Festivals on October 22.
Based on the acclaimed novels by Bán Mór, the show chronicles the life of Hungarian warrior Janos Hunyadi, who triumphed over the Ottoman forces in 1456 during the Battle of Belgrade, effectively halting their advance across Europe and marking a pivotal moment in continental history.
The series is produced by veteran Canadian filmmaker Robert Lantos through Serendipity Point Films, known for titles like “The Sweet Hereafter,” “Eastern Promises,” and “Crimes of the Future.” Beta Film, recognized for successful titles such as “Gomorrah” and “Babylon Berlin,” is managing international representation of the series as part of a comprehensive Mipcom lineup.
In the trailer, Hunyadi (Kádár L. Gellért) rallies his army against the Ottoman threat, joined by his warrior wife, Elizabeth Szilagyi (Vivien Rujder). Meanwhile, the first love of Hunyadi, Serbian princess Mara Brankovic (Franciska Töröcsik), makes a heart-wrenching sacrifice to protect her people by agreeing to become a concubine in Sultan Murad II’s (Murathan Muslu) royal court.
Set against a backdrop of intense romance, strategic alliances, and monumental battles, the fate of Europe hangs in the balance. “Rise of the Raven” is one of the most anticipated premieres at this year’s Mipcom and is touted as one of the most expensive European TV productions to date, with Lantos highlighting its budget as comparable to that of other high-stakes global productions.
Lantos remarked on the ambitious nature of the project, stating, “I suspect that in the world of non-English language production, this is probably the most ambitious ever, based simply on its scope, its size, and its cost.” He noted the challenges in securing funding, expressing uncertainty about undertaking a similar endeavor in the future.
Filming took place in Hungary and at NFI Studios near Budapest, with an extensive commitment to historical accuracy. Local artisans crafted elaborate sets to recreate 15th-century Vienna, Milan, and Edirne, as well as the formidable Belgrade Castle. Lantos emphasized the importance of delivering these stories with authenticity.
The producer shared his enthusiasm for the narrative that captivated him upon discovering the novels, remarking, “What an extraordinary story.” He recognized the complexity and breadth of Hunyadi’s life and the associated historical events, determining that a two-hour film could not adequately capture the material.
Determined to honor the historical context, Lantos insisted that “Rise of the Raven” be faithful to the period by portraying the authentic languages of the characters involved. He stated, “To honor the languages spoken by the historic characters involved. And to cast accordingly.”
The series is financed by Hungary’s National Film Institute and Beta Film, with production credits including Serendipity Point Films, Twin Media, HG Media, MR Film, and Beta. Co-production includes Hungary’s TV2 Network, which will air the series in Hungary and Slovenia, and Austrian public broadcaster ORF, which will also air the series in Austria. Additional production contributions come from Tibor Krsko, Cecilia Hazai, Kinga Hazai, and others.