In a major reveal, Stan has unveiled the first images for its much-anticipated Original Series, “The Tattooist of Auschwitz,” scheduled to premiere on May 2.
The series, based on Heather Morris’ internationally acclaimed novel, showcases the talents of renowned actors Harvey Keitel, Melanie Lynskey, Jonah Hauer-King, Anna Próchniak, and Jonas Nay.
This six-part adaptation, set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, tells the real-life story of Lali and Gita Sokolov, two prisoners who found love in the harrowing confines of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
The unveiled images present Harvey Keitel in his role as the elderly Lali Sokolov, with Jonah Hauer-King portraying his younger self. Anna Próchniak takes on the character of Gita Furman, Melanie Lynskey embodies the author Heather Morris, and Jonas Nay portrays the Nazi SS officer Stefan Baretzki.
“The Tattooist of Auschwitz” is notable for its score, masterfully composed by Hans Zimmer, a multi-Academy Award winner, in collaboration with Kara Talve. The narrative follows Lali (Jonah Hauer-King), a Slovakian Jew, who is deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1942. Appointed as a Tätowierer (tattooist), Lali’s life takes a turn when he meets Gita (Anna Próchniak), marking the start of a powerful and enduring love story.
Decades later, a widowed Lali (Harvey Keitel) encounters aspiring writer Heather Morris (Melanie Lynskey), to whom he recounts his haunting past and the love he found in the midst of tragedy.
Claire Mundell, Executive Producer from Synchronicity Films, reflects on the casting process:
“We knew from the beginning that we wanted Jonah to play Young Lali. Once Jonah was on board, the challenge was on to find the perfect Gita.
Anna was the most wonderful discovery for us during the casting process. She stood out so clearly and it became increasingly clear that only Jonah and Anna could portray the humanity, the spirit, the resistance, and the defiance of Lali and Gita.
They have both delivered career-defining performances in this series.”
Tali Shalom-Ezer, the Director and Co-Executive Producer, emphasises the challenge of conveying the love story amid such darkness:
“Claire and I talked about what a huge challenge it was going to be to make viewers believe in a love story that existed in this dark place and time.
This was the task that I as director, Claire, Jacquelin and our team took upon ourselves, and I pray that we will be able to make viewers around the world believe in the wonderful love story of Lali and Gita.”
Claire Mundell elaborates on the authenticity brought by Harvey Keitel:
“To have Harvey join us is a dream come true. The commitment and authenticity with which Harvey approached the portrayal of Lali was breath-taking to watch.
It was important that both young and old Lali were played authentically by Jewish actors who were able to deliver the part with nuance, empathy, compassion, and the complexity that we need from that character.”
The series, which also explores Heather Morris’ role in bringing Lali’s story to light, was developed over five years. The adaptation stands out in its portrayal of a profound human story amid one of history’s darkest chapters.
“The Tattooist of Auschwitz” is a joint production by Synchronicity Films, Sky Studios, Stan Australia, and All3Media International. Jacquelin Perske leads as the Executive Producer and head writer, with Evan Placey and Gabbie Asher contributing as episode writers. Serena Thompson represents Sky Studios as an Executive Producer.
In addition to its premiere on Stan, the series will air on Sky Atlantic in the UK and Ireland and on Peacock in the US. NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution and All3Media International will manage international sales.
