07/06/2021 - German TV channel ZDF is producing the social drama film based on a screenplay by Annika Tepelmann, starring Max Simonischek, Christian Berkel and Friederike Becht

(l-r) Christian Berkel, Max Simonischek and Friederike Becht in Aus nächster Nähe (© ZDF/Christine Schroeder)

Shooting for a new ZDF production has started in Hamburg and the surrounding area. German director Thomas Kronthaler, experienced in helming TV productions for the German market, will direct the drama with the working title Aus nächster Nähe (lit. "At Close Range"). Based on a script by Annika Tepelmann, the film will star Max Simonischek (Zwingli [+see also:
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The trio will be at the centre of a crime story about sexual harassment. Simonischek plays Jonas, a police officer who for years has worked as the personal bodyguard for local politician Mittendorf, played by Berkel. Jonas's girlfriend (Becht) is the press spokesperson for Mittendorf. After a business gala, she disappears for a while. When she shows up again, she tells Jonas that Mittendorf has sexually harassed her. Jonas urges her to report Mittendorf, but she hesitates, since there is no evidence and Mittendorf apologised to her. But finally, the situation escalates and Jonas is forced to take action.

Among the supporting cast are actors Benjamin Schroeder, Jogi Kaiser, Christian Clauß, Theresa Berlage (Adam & Eve), Lisa Karlström, Hannah Dalmeyer, Vitoria Steiber and Andy Gätjen. The film is a co-production between ZDF and A.Pictures Film & TV.Production.GmbH in Hamburg. The shoot is scheduled to wrap in late June.