Arte, Viaplay Series Mania Title ‘A Life’s Worth’ Sells
Viaplay Content Distribution has successfully sold the gripping drama series “A Life’s Worth” to Spain (EITB) and Greece (Vodafone) ahead of its highly anticipated premiere at Series Mania in the International Panorama section. The six-episode series, directed by Ahmed Abdullahi, is inspired by the harrowing challenges faced by the first Swedish U.N. battalion deployed to Bosnia in 1993.
Produced by Yellowbird in collaboration with Viaplay and Arte France, “A Life’s Worth” has also secured a licensing deal with Arte for France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Austria, while Viaplay retains the rights for the rest of the world.
Co-written by Mona Masri and Oliver Dixon, the series delves into the experiences of Swedish soldiers who volunteered for duty in Bosnia, many of whom were unprepared for the brutal realities of war. Masri emphasizes the importance of staying true to the stories of those who have lived through conflict, capturing their sense of helplessness and the moral dilemmas they faced.
Drawing inspiration from the book of the same name by U.N. soldier Magnus Ernström, who served as a consultant on the show, “A Life’s Worth” aims to shed light on the forgotten Balkan conflict and the sacrifices made by those involved. The series highlights the challenges faced by peacekeepers who are often restricted in their ability to protect civilians in the face of violence.
The cast, including Johan Rheborg, Erik Enge, Edvin Ryding, Maxwell Cunningham, Toni Prince, Sandra Stojiljković, and Johannes Bah Kuhnke, delivers powerful performances that bring to life the complexities of the characters and their moral struggles.
Rheborg, who plays the controversial colonel in the series, reflects on the reluctance of Swedish society to acknowledge its involvement in conflicts abroad and the changing attitudes towards military intervention. Enge echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the desire of young soldiers to make a difference despite their lack of training and experience in handling danger.
Despite the heavy subject matter, “A Life’s Worth” also incorporates moments of humor to provide relief from the intense scenes, echoing the resilience of individuals in the face of trauma. The characters in the series navigate the chaos of war while striving to uphold their principles and find moments of decency amidst the brutality.
As “A Life’s Worth” prepares to make its mark on the international stage, it serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring resilience of those who face unimaginable challenges. The series invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of war and the unwavering spirit of those who strive for peace in the midst of chaos.
