Veteran filmmaker Robert Lantos is generating buzz at MIPCOM with his latest television series “Rise of the Raven.” Unlike many historical dramas, the production prioritizes authentic language and cultural representation.
Lantos, known for work on acclaimed movies like “Eastern Promises,” made the unusual choice to have characters speak in their native tongues rather than defaulting to English. “This story is deeply tied to specific moments in history and places,” Lantos explained. “I didn’t want all the characters using some mixed English.”
The Canada-based producer of Hungarian descent carried this dedication to precision into casting. He sought actors from the nations depicted rather than employing famous international stars. “Global celebrities tend to come from English-speaking backgrounds, rarely elsewhere,” Lantos noted. “I felt it was worth finding local talent from the real countries involved in this history.”
Lantos acknowledged challenges finding suitable performers from smaller pools. However, he believes worthwhile to generate an immersive viewing experience. “I just wanted this to feel genuine. I’ve seen too much inauthenticity before,” Lantos said.
The co-production involves multiple European partners, including broadcasters from Austria and Hungary alongside production companies. Distribution company Beta Film is promoting “Rise of the Raven” to potential buyers at the global television market in Cannes.
Lantos credits streaming services for cultivating audiences open to subtitled shows. “This may not have been possible 10 years ago, but streaming has made people used to subtitles,” he observed, citing successes like “Shogun” and “Squid Game” that found platforms for language-diverse content.
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Industry recognition has followed Lantos’ bold choice. “Rise of the Raven” made a curated must-see list from Deadline. As TV continues evolving, the series demonstrates growing viability for culturally and linguistically specific programming in the worldwide market. Success could pave the way for more productions prioritizing factual accuracy over formulas.
