In a significant development in the film industry, former Wiedemann & Berg Managing Director Justyna Muesch is embarking on a new journey by founding an independent production company, Story Garden. Joining her in this venture are seasoned colleagues Sofie Scherz-Fleischer and director Alireza Golafshan. This collaboration aims to harness their collective expertise to foster the creation of high-quality films and series specifically tailored for the German-speaking audience.
Story Garden is not emerging in a vacuum; instead, it is built upon a decade-long partnership that includes Thomas Herberth and Florian Brüning, from Horse&Fruits Film Productions. Their combined experience, from the inception of projects such as the recent comedy “Alles Fifty Fifty,” positions Story Garden to explore diverse narratives across various genres.
Collective Achievements and Future Aspirations
The trio of Muesch, Scherz, and Golafshan is no stranger to success. Their previous collaborations have demonstrated a knack for storytelling, with notable projects like “The Goldfish” in 2019 and “JGA: Jasmin.Gina.Anna” in 2021 setting a solid foundation for their creative synergy. Their most recent endeavor, “Alles Fifty Fifty,” has garnered critical acclaim, even winning the Bavarian Film Award for Best Director, solidifying their reputations within the industry.
The establishment of Story Garden, however, signifies more than just a continuation of their work; it represents a bold leap towards expanding their creative horizons. The inclusion of Herberth and Brüning—experienced documentary producers—further enhances the potential of Story Garden to produce content that is not only entertaining but also meaningful and informative. This diverse skill set allows for a broader exploration of themes, offering audiences a richer viewing experience.
The plans for Story Garden extend into various formats and collaborations, emphasizing innovation in production. One of their upcoming projects involves a series about animated sheep, developed for ZDF and ORF. This venture alone highlights the company’s commitment to original concepts that challenge conventional storytelling methods.
Furthermore, Story Garden aims to strengthen ties between German and Austrian cinema, with initiatives for co-productions that promise to enrich both markets. Such collaborations will not only broaden their creative palate but also expose international audiences to the unique narratives that emerge from these regions.
Muesch’s enthusiasm for the new partnership is palpable. She has voiced her excitement about taking this step alongside a team that complements each other’s strengths perfectly. The ambition to nurture upcoming talent is also a critical aspect of their mission, ensuring that Story Garden remains not just a production house but a breeding ground for future storytellers.
As Story Garden takes flight, it stands poised to make a significant impact on the film landscape. With a robust lineup of projects and a clear vision for collaborative growth, this independent production company is set to be a formidable player in the German-speaking film industry, forging paths where creativity meets opportunity. The future looks bright for Story Garden, and the industry will be watching closely.