Filming in Hungary: Rise of the Raven

via Orbital Strangers Project

The competition for viewers on streaming services and television broadcasting has never been greater, but local talents are going big by betting on Rise of the Raven, a small-screen series that recounts the life and heroics of Hungarian warrior János Hunyadi, a name well known inside Hungary, but less so outside Central Europe.

The 15th Century army commander Hunyadi repelled invading Ottoman troops in the Battle of Belgrade in 1456. Budapest Reporter summarises the plot of the 10-hour series as such: “While Hunyadi‘s life is troubled by scandals, political power plays and conspiracies between the noble families of Warsaw, Rome, Belgrade, Vienna and Prague, his strongest allies are women: his wife Erzsébet Szilágyi, who stood by him in his battles, and his first love, Mara Brankovics, who became a leading concubine at the court of Sultan Murad. When the Ottoman Empire mobilizes an army of unprecedented size to march West to conquer the Vatican, and Europe as a whole, Hunyadi – against all odds- wins a decisive victory at the Battle of Nándorfehérvár, putting an end to the Ottoman invasion and transforming the history of Europe.”

Budapest-born Canadian film producer Robert Lantos (Sunshine, Johnny Mnemonic), is one of the prime movers of the project, which is being called “the most epic Central European television production of all time.” Adapted from Bán Mór’s bestselling novels, principle photography is currently underway in Hungary, with experienced Hungarian directors Attila Száz (Tall Tales, Eternal Winter ) and Orsi Nagypal (Open) helming, under guidance of Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning director Robert Dornhelm (The Children of Theater Street, Maria Theresa, War and Peace).

With 29 million dollars coming from the Hungarian Film Fund, this represents a huge investment for the fund’s entrance into the international television market. “I think it would be nice to achieve a level that people around the world can marvel at what Hungarian filmmakers are capable of,” director Szász told Variety. “We have this amazing historical story…and it would be very nice to let them know about this story in a way that’s unique and equally high quality. That’s what we are aiming for.”

Filming for Rise of the Raven is expected to continue until June of next year.

Flatpack Films has many years of experience dedicated to offering expert servicing. It has brought the best of Hungary to countless brands, agencies, and production companies through its unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top of the line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more - bringing their projects to life through a highly bespoke approach.