Production Report: Making-of Babylon Berlin is the most expensive non-English language television series ever produced in Germany. Created and directed by the trio of Tom Tykwer , Achim von Borries , and Hendrik Handloegten , the series is a meticulous reconstruction of the Weimar Republic era, based on the Gereon Rath novels by Volker Kutscher. 1. Vision and Directing
The series utilizes a unique "triangular" creative leadership. Tykwer, Borries, and Handloegten wrote and directed the episodes collectively, sharing a unified vision rather than dividing the work into standalone segments. According to the Goethe-Institut , this approach ensured a consistent "neo-noir" aesthetic across all seasons. 2. Historical Reconstruction
Recreate iconic landmarks like the Rote Rathaus (Red City Hall) and the Alexanderplatz as they appeared in the late 1920s. 4. Production Status Making-of: Babylon Berlin
Much of the series was filmed at the Studio Babelsberg in Potsdam. A massive permanent outdoor set called the "Neue Berliner Straße" (New Berlin Street) was built specifically to recreate four different Berlin neighborhoods.
The title "Babylon" was chosen by the filmmakers to mirror the biblical description of a city defined by immorality and glamour, which they felt perfectly described Weimar-era Berlin . 3. Visual Effects (VFX) Production Report: Making-of Babylon Berlin is the most
To supplement the physical sets, the production relied heavily on digital work. As seen in VFX breakdowns from Rise FX, digital technology was used to: Extend physical street sets into endless urban horizons. Remove modern infrastructure from historical locations.
The series has grown into an international phenomenon, wrapping its final production stages recently: Babylon Berlin: Season 3 - VFX Breakdown by RISE Vision and Directing The series utilizes a unique
The production aimed to capture the "hedonistic city of extremes" that was 1929 Berlin—a place where immense wealth clashed with destitute poverty.