As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for blockbuster movies and a soft spot for European cinematography, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation tinged with nostalgia upon hearing about Henning Molfenter’s new venture, Babelsberg Production Group. With his rich history at Studio Babelsberg, overseeing the production of some of my all-time favorite films like The Grand Budapest Hotel and Inglourious Basterds, he has undeniably left an indelible mark on the film industry.
According to The Hollywood Reporter’s findings, Henning Molfenter, who had been leading production at the legendary German film studio Babelsberg for a long time, has established his own production company, named Babelsberg Production Group, independently.
Since 2004, Molfenter has served as the head of film and TV production at Studio Babelsberg, managing the creation of numerous films such as Roman Polanski’s “The Pianist,” Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds,” Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” and the Russo Brothers’ “Captain America: Civil War.” At the end of this year, his contract will expire, and he will be stepping down from his position. Marcus Loges has been appointed to replace him as the new head of film and TV production at Studio Babelsberg.
Molfenter’s fresh venture aims to provide production services and co-production assistance for global film and television productions intending to film in Germany and beyond Europe. Molfenter expressed his aspirations, stating, “We aim to be the preferred service provider for producers planning to shoot here,” as communicated to THR.
Babelsberg Production Group won’t create its unique intellectual properties, instead, it will assist incoming productions, and it can join forces as a German co-producer for various projects to benefit from local grants and tax advantages.
With a wealth of experience spanning decades in handling blockbuster movies from Hollywood, such as “The Bourne Supremacy,” “The Matrix Resurrections,” “John Wick: Chapter 4,” and “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” Molfenter expresses a desire to work on the most significant productions available. However, he is also prepared to partner with smaller independent films. In his words, he’s open to projects ranging from $10 million to $150 million – everyone is invited.
Molfenter’s departure from Studio Babelsberg happens at the same time as its acquisition by TPG Real Estate, a U.S.-based investment firm that also owns Cinespace Studios backlots in Chicago and Toronto. With his smaller, tailor-made business, Molfenter thinks he will have greater agility and better resources to cater to the needs of visiting producers.
The new company will officially launch in January.
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2024-12-05 16:24