Sky and Peacock today released the full trailer for upcoming original series The Tattooist of Auschwitz which will be available on Sky Atlantic 2nd May. The six-part limited drama series, based on the international bestselling novel by Heather Morris, is inspired by the real-life story of Lali and Gita Sokolov, who met while prisoners in the Auschwitz concentration camp during the Holocaust of World War II.
This powerful trailer shows an older Lali (Harvey Keitel) retelling his experiences of Auschwitz to Heather Morris (Melanie Lynskey) as we journey with him through his memories of that time. As the trailer unfolds, audiences witness the emotional tale of love and resilience as younger Lali, (Jonah Hauer-King), crosses paths with Gita (Anna Próchniak) and embarks on a profound journey of love amidst the horrors of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
The trailer includes a poignant original score from multi–Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer and Kara Talve, who have also composed the soundtrack for the series.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is the story of one man, Lali (Hauer-King), a Slovakian Jew, who, in 1942, is deported to Auschwitz, the concentration camp where over a million Jews were murdered during the Holocaust.
Shortly after arrival, Lali is made one of the Tätowierer (tattooists), charged to ink identification numbers onto fellow prisoners’ arms. One day, he meets Gita (Próchniak) when tattooing her prisoner number on her arm, leading to a love that defies the horrors around them. So begins a courageous and unforgettable story. Under constant guard from a volatile Nazi SS officer Stefan Baretzki (Jonas Nay), Lali and Gita become determined to keep each other alive.
Around 60 years later, Lali (Keitel) now in his 80’s, meets aspiring writer Heather Morris (Lynskey). Recently widowed, Lali finds the courage to tell the world his story. In recounting his past to Heather, Lali finally confronts the traumatic ghosts of his youth and relives his memories of falling in love in the darkest of places.
Directed by Tali Shalom-Ezer, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is executive produced by Claire Mundell through her company Synchronicity Films and is produced in association with Sky Studios and All3Media International. The series is a coproduction for Sky and Peacock. Jacquelin Perske is Executive Producer and lead writer for The Tattooist of Auschwitz alongside episode writers Evan Placey (Associate Producer) and Gabbie Asher. Serena Thompson is Executive Producer for Sky Studios.
NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution and All3Media International are jointly handling international sales of the series. Stan, Australia’s leading local streamer is taking the Original rights to the series in their territory, with SkyShowtime taking rights for Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Sweden.
The series will be available from May 2nd on Sky Atlantic and streaming service NOW in the UK and Ireland, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Peacock in the US and Stan in Australia.
An In-depth Look at The Tattooist of Auschwitz
The Tattooist of Auschwitz, a compelling story that has captured the hearts of millions around the world, masterfully narrates the tale of Lali Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who was deported to Auschwitz in 1942. His story is one of love, resilience and hope against the backdrop of one of history’s darkest periods. In this article, we delve deeper into the journey of bringing this poignant story to life.
Introduction
At the heart of The Tattooist of Auschwitz is Lali Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew sent to Auschwitz, the infamous concentration camp where over a million Jews were tragically exterminated during the Holocaust. Upon his arrival, Lali is designated as one of the Tätowierers, or tattooists, responsible for inscribing identification numbers onto the arms of fellow prisoners. This role sets the stage for a love story that defies the grim reality around them when he inks the arm of a young woman named Gita. Their love story begins within the confines of Auschwitz, under the constant surveillance of a volatile Nazi SS officer, Stefan Baretzki.
Unfolding the Story: The Making of The Tattooist of Auschwitz
The process of adapting The Tattooist of Auschwitz from a best-selling novel to a six-part miniseries was a journey of dedication and meticulous craftsmanship. Claire Mundell, the award-winning executive producer, was immediately drawn to the book’s moving narrative. The idea of a love story unfolding amidst the horrors of Auschwitz was a narrative that had never been explored on screen for a mainstream global audience. To Mundell, Lali and Gita’s story represented hope and survival, themes that were essential to communicate through the series.
Casting: Creating a Cohesive Ensemble
The casting process was integral to the series’ creation. Jonah Hauer-King was selected to portray young Lali, a decision that was made soon after the book was optioned. His commitment to the project was evident from the beginning, with his dedication serving as a guiding light throughout the production. Anna Próchniak was chosen to play Gita. Initially auditioning for smaller roles, her strength and resilience eventually led to her being cast as the series’ female lead. The casting of Harvey Keitel as the older Lali brought a sense of authenticity to the series, with Keitel’s portrayal evoking a profound resonance with audiences.
The Look: Crafting a Convincing Reality
The visual language of The Tattooist of Auschwitz was crucial in painting a vivid picture of the setting and characters. The production team went to great lengths to recreate the camp and its conditions, consulting with the Auschwitz museum, historical consultants, and relying on first-hand accounts of Auschwitz survivors. The show’s hair and makeup designer, Frances Hounsom, used watercolour paintings as visual references for the production, creating a colour palette that reflected the sombre tones of the camp. Costume designer Ján Kocman worked closely with the production team to create the prisoners’ uniforms and footwear, ensuring the authenticity of the series.
Directing the Series: A Single Vision
Having one director across all six episodes provided the series with a consistent vision. Tali Shalom-Ezer directed each episode, bringing a rigorous passion to the project. Her focus on performances and her artistic approach added depth, authenticity, and a comprehensive narrative flow to the series.
Heather Morris: The Story Consultant
Heather Morris, the author of the best-selling novel, served as a story consultant for the series. Her unique relationship with Lali Sokolov provided invaluable insights during the scriptwriting and filming process. Morris was able to provide first-hand accounts of her conversations with Lali, helping the cast and crew understand the man behind the story.
The Music: Setting the Tone
The music for the series was composed by Hans Zimmer and Kara Talve. Their score added a layer of emotion to the series, reflecting the harsh realities of the camp while also capturing the uplifting moments of hope and love.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A Story of Hope
Despite the dark and painful history it explores, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a story of resilience, survival, and most importantly, love. It serves as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for hope even in the bleakest circumstances. It’s a story that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us of our past and the importance of never forgetting.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is more than a TV series. It’s a testament to love’s power to endure the most horrific circumstances and a reminder of the strength of the human spirit. The series underscores the importance of telling these stories, ensuring that the atrocities of the Holocaust are never forgotten. As we navigate through our own challenges, Lali and Gita’s story serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to resilience, and a compelling reminder of love’s transformative power.
By capturing the essence of Lali and Gita’s story, The Tattooist of Auschwitz brings to life a narrative that is as harrowing as it is inspiring. It serves as a stark reminder of the past, a tribute to those who lived through such horrors, and a call to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a story that needed to be told. It’s a story that continues to resonate, to educate, and to inspire. And while it’s a tale born from one of humanity’s darkest chapters, it’s also a poignant reminder of our capacity for love, resilience, and hope.