In a significant development in the European film production landscape, former Wiedemann & Berg Managing Director Justyna Muesch is teaming up with her long-time collaborators—Sofie Scherz-Fleischer and director Alireza Golafshan—to establish an independent production company, Story Garden, based in Munich. This new initiative symbolizes not just a fresh start for these seasoned professionals but also a strategic move to capture a broader audience within the German-speaking market. By pooling their expertise, the founders aim to produce high-quality films and series that traverse various genres, reflecting their collective vision and experience.
The new venture is bolstered by a notable history of collaboration among Muesch, Scherz-Fleischer, and Golafshan. Their partnership has already yielded three successful projects, with the latest installment, Golafshan’s comedy “Alles Fifty Fifty,” recently garnering the Bavarian Film Award for Best Director in 2024. This accolade underscores their ability to create engaging content that resonates with audiences and critics alike. Their earlier works, including “The Goldfish” and “JGA: Jasmin.Gina.Anna,” have also contributed to establishing their reputations in the industry.
Integrating passion and expertise from the film industry, Story Garden will also collaborate with Thomas Herberth and Florian Brüning from Horse & Fruits Film Productions. This partnership is crucial as it allows the new company to absorb the Munich operations of Horse & Fruits while maintaining a Vienna office under its original banner. The existing projects, such as the innovative series “on Sheep,” which uniquely explores the concept of talking sheep, exemplify their commitment to creative storytelling. The synergy among these professionals suggests that Story Garden will not only preserve the legacy of Horse & Fruits but significantly enhance its scope.
Emphasis on Talent Discovery
Beyond just producing established narratives, Muesch emphasizes the importance of discovering and nurturing new talents within the industry. The vision for Story Garden transcends traditional production; it seeks to cultivate a creative environment where aspiring filmmakers can thrive. By combining the documentary expertise of Herberth and Brüning with the narrative-driven experiences of Muesch, Scherz-Fleischer, and Golafshan, the company positions itself to tackle a wide range of projects and storytelling styles, setting the stage for groundbreaking content.
The Future of Story Garden
With excitement palpable, Muesch articulates her enthusiasm for embarking on this new journey with her team, highlighting the wonderful partnerships and rich experiences that led them to this moment. As they pave the way for upcoming projects, including potential German-Austrian co-productions, the industry will undoubtedly watch with keen interest. The formation of Story Garden represents a significant evolution not only for the founders but for the German-speaking film market, where ambition and creativity are set to flourish. The implications of this venture could redefine the parameters of success in European cinema, inviting a new era of collaboration and innovation.