ZDF Studios takes over global distribution of ‘Magic Moves’
New social factual format with the Ehrlich Brothers combines therapy with magic
Mainz, December 17th, 2024
ZDF Studios is handling the global distribution of the new social factual format ‘Magic Moves’ (4 x 43‘ and 8 x 23’), which was developed and produced by its subsidiary CONTENT LADEN for broadcast on the ZDF's main channel and on KiKa.
‘Magic Moves’ explores a new approach to therapy for children with Children with half-sided physical paralysis (hemiparesis), combining therapy and magic. The aim is to improve the motor skills of ten children with hemiparesis by teaching them magic tricks during a two-week magic camp at a medieval castle, thereby promoting their independence. They are accompanied on this adventurous journey by star magicians Chris and Andreas Ehrlich, better known as the Ehrlich Brothers, and a team of scientific therapists from the LMU Clinic in Munich, the Schönklinik Vogtareuth and the Maulbronn Children's Centre. In addition to the Ehrlich Brothers, who host the show, other celebrity helpers such as dancer Sophie Hauenherm, pop singer Kati K, TV chef Meta Hiltebrand and rap and pop musician Bürger Lars Dietrich are invited to appear in each episode of the German version of the format. In four moving episodes, the format focuses primarily on the personal stories of the children, who strengthen their self-confidence and sense of community through this innovative training and ultimately rise above themselves in a magical show in front of family and friends.
Jan Fritzowsky, producer at CONTENT LADEN: "'Magic Moves' is an in-house development from our CONTENT LADEN. That's why we are particularly proud of the incredible feedback from parents, children, experts and, in the end, viewers. The format is something very special in its production value and, above all, in its sustainability. Perhaps the most valuable and emotional format I have had the privilege of producing in my television career."
Ralf Rueckauer, Vice President Unscripted at ZDF Studios: "What makes 'Magic Moves' so special is its emotional and captivating concept that makes magic tangible. The desire to perform everyday tasks such as putting on socks on your own highlights the importance of small moments. Magic tricks give children the power to change their perspective and achieve the extraordinary. This magic works on all levels, fulfilling the great dream of making the seemingly impossible possible."
Peter Lang, Vice President Junior, ZDF Studios, adds: "We are convinced that this universal theme of hope, empowerment and magic, embedded in an innovative therapeutic concept, has the potential to touch children's hearts worldwide and to be an international success."
'Magic Moves' offers insights into an emotional journey with a magical finale in front of family and friends. It combines empowerment and entertainment through the interplay of established therapy, scientific study, personal stories and a magical show finale.
The first episode of the four-part weekly programme celebrated its TV premiere on 30 November 2024 on ZDF, while the eight-part version "Magic Moves Kids" started on 1 December on KiKa. In addition, the entire programme is already available in the broadcasters' media libraries.
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About ZDF Studios
ZDF Studios is a commercial subsidiary of ZDF, one of the largest TV broadcasters in Europe. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Mainz, Germany, the ZDF Studios Group operates more than 30 direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates in Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom spanning TV production, distribution and services. The parent company, ZDF Studios, is responsible for global programme distribution, realisation of international co-productions, acquisition of licences and merchandising of successful programme brands under its own name, for ZDF and third parties. ZDF Studios has the largest German-language programme inventory in the world and a constantly growing range of international productions, consisting of series and mini-series, television films, documentaries and children's programmes. In 2024, ZDF Studios was named Investor/Distributor of the Year at Cartoon Forum.
The companies of the ZDF Studios Group cover the entire value chain from the development of scripted and unscripted TV content to production, marketing and monetizing, including TV and streaming licences as well as merchandising and online rights. The positioning of ZDF Studios as an integrated media company enables the development of innovative, outstanding and high-quality programmes and makes the Group an attractive workplace for German and international talent to flourish in a very inspiring and creative environment.
Contact ZDF Studios
Christine Denilauler (VP Marketing and Corporate Communications), ZDF Studios GmbH, Erich-Dombrowski-Str. 1, D-55127 Mainz/Germany, Tel.: +49 6131-9911130, E-mail: christine.denilauler@zdf-studios.com, www.zdf-studios.com
About CONTENT LADEN
CONTENT LADEN is a production company under the umbrella of ZDF Studios. It develops and produces factual entertainment formats for the channels and platforms of the ZDF world, but also for other broadcasters and streaming partners: entertaining programmes in real life and with real people, as well as documentaries and reports. For television, for media libraries and for digital channels.
Since 2023, a creative team has been working in the CONTENT LADEN in Munich on the development, production and editing of formats. The producers, co-founders and shareholders Tom Gamlich and Jan Fritzowsky have decades of experience, having developed over 60 TV formats for almost all German TV channels. The team is completed by equally renowned colleagues in producing and production management. CONTENT LADEN is also a cooperative partner for artists, freelancers and partner companies.