Film- und Medienstiftung NRW to Be Main Partner of the 2026 Berlinale Series Market – Two Funded Series Projects Included in the Program

For the twelfth time, the Film and Media Foundation NRW is the main partner of the Berlinale Series Market (February 16–19, 2026), which takes place as part of the Berlinale’s European Film Market (EFM). As a key international platform for series formats, the Berlinale Series Market brings together producers, broadcasters, streaming services, and creatives from around the world. Through its involvement, the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW once again underscores North Rhine-Westphalia’s importance as a leading hub for series production and promotes international exchange.

“All Heroes Are Bastards,” a production funded by the Film and Media Foundation NRW, is featured in the Berlinale Series Market Selects program . Developed by Esra and Patrick Phul, this fantasy drama series tells the story of three social outcasts who gain superpowers through a mysterious artifact—and must decide whether to protect their community or use their new abilities for personal gain. The series is a production of Picture Me Rollin’ GmbH and bildundtonfabrik (btf), with ARD Degeto as the broadcast partner, and was filmed entirely in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW provided 1.3 million euros in funding for the project .

Also featured is the thriller-drama series “Westend Girl, ” which will be presented as part of the Up Next: Germany showcase. Directed by Pola Beck and Stefan Schaller, the series tells the story of the sudden collapse of a privileged youth in Düsseldorf after the parents of 18-year-old Ronja Huck are arrested for organized drug trafficking. The series was produced by Flare Film and Cactus Films in co-production with WDR and ARTE. The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW supported the production with 900,000 euros.

In addition, the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW will once again be present in 2026, together with the other eight regional film funding agencies, at the “focus Germany” booth at the European Film Market in the Gropius Bau. Visitors to the EFM are warmly welcome to stop by to learn more about North Rhine-Westphalia as a hub for film and series production and to engage in conversation.