‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ Writer Lesley Paterson Penning Bertha Benz Film (Exclusive)

The co-author of “All Quiet on the Western Front,” Lesley Paterson, is set to write the script for a movie inspired by a virtual reality experience, which follows the life story of Bertha Benz – the partner of Carl Benz, often referred to as the “father of the modern car.

Paterson, a co-writer of the nine-time Oscar-nominated film (including best adapted screenplay), shared with The Hollywood Reporter that she became interested in Benz’s tale after becoming an executive producer for the VR game “Trailblazer: The Untold Story of Bertha Benz.”

Or, more informally:

Paterson, who helped write a movie with nine Oscar nominations (including best adapted screenplay), told The Hollywood Reporter that she got hooked on Benz’s story after joining the VR game “Trailblazer: The Untold Story of Bertha Benz” as an executive producer.

The kind of tales I prefer to weave,” she explained, “are deeply rooted in themes such as resilience, conquering adversity, and making a meaningful impact. Notably, stories that emphasize female empowerment are right up my alley.

Eloise Singer, a London-based director and creator who has been Emmy-nominated, is responsible for Trailblazer. This production is set to have its French debut in Cannes’ immersive competition and tells the story of Bertha Benz, wife of Karl Benz, the inventor of the Motorwagen, or the first contemporary car. In 1888, Bertha undertook the world’s first road trip, demonstrating the vehicle to a doubtful public and media but, in the end, making history.

Singer expressed to THR how well they mesh, attributing their connection to meeting years prior when Paterson appeared on her podcast. She finds the prospect of transitioning a VR project into filmmaking intriguing because it’s an uncharted territory with few pioneers.

As I, a passionate gamer, immerse myself in the exciting world of this new game, I find myself stepping into the shoes of Bertha, a character brought to life by the talented Daisy Ridley, famously known from Star Wars. Not only am I embodying this role, but I’m also fortunate enough to be an executive producer on this film. The journey ahead promises adventure, discovery, and a story that I can’t wait to share with fellow gamers like myself!

As a gamer, I’d put it like this: “Absolutely, we’re planning to pitch it over to Netflix,” Paterson said when queried about the movie potentially receiving the ‘All Quiet’ adaptation. “The crucial factor is securing the script initially, as a writer and producer, I’ve learned that going into negotiations without a script gives you less negotiating power.

Experience a journey by stepping into Bertha’s footsteps, examining her workshop, and constructing the groundbreaking engine that revolutionized transport. This immersive Virtual Reality adventure initially debuted at the Venice Film Festival and SXSW in 2024, prior to Ridley’s involvement.

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2025-05-16 18:24