ZDF ENTERPRISES TAKES ITS “MAGELLAN’S VOYAGE” DOCUMENTARY TO THE U.S.

The documentary “Magellan’s Voyage - Search for the Spice Islands” (1x50’), which commemorates the first circumnavigation of the globe, which took place half a millennium ago, has been licensed by ZDF Enterprises to New York public broadcaster WNET. Recent sales also include Société Radio Canada, Italy’s RAI, RTP Radiotelevisao in Portugal and Discovery Networks in Spain. Elsewhere, the title has been snapped up by public broadcasters YLE in Finland, Russia’s Kultura TV, Poland’s TVP, and CTV in Czech Republic.

Produced by IFAGE Filmproduktion for ZDF in association with ZDF Enterprises, “Magellan’s Voyage - Search for the Spice Islands” was commissioned for ZDF’s top rating Terra X slot. The story is set in Spain, 1519. Five ships and 270 men leave the familiar shore behind on an extraordinary quest: to find a western sea passage to the sought-after Spice Islands of Indonesia. They’re led by the Portuguese seafarer and nobleman Ferdinand Magellan, setting out on a voyage that would change the world.

Three years later, the impossible has been done: the expedition becomes the first to circumnavigate the globe. His vision and drive mark the starting point of a development that radically alters our understanding of the Earth, triggering a chain reaction that still ripples through society today.

The elaborate re-enactments throughout the documentary allows the viewer to experience firsthand the trials and tribulations of the crew and the last dramatic days of the expedition. The programme reveals intriguing details such as how people in 1500 managed to build sailing ships that were able to travel over 60.000 miles and also discusses the impact of colonisation on local inhabitants.

“Audiences of all ages will be captivated by this story of the amazing and dangerous voyage undertaken by Magellan and his crew. The documentary also offers fresh insights and a contemporary perspective on fascinating historical details,”  said Ralf Rueckauer, Vice President ZDFE.unscripted at ZDF Enterprises.