On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, RTL will air the thrilling crime drama "Behringer und die Toten – Ein Bamberg-Krimi: Antoniusfeuer." This captivating episode brings viewers back to a chilling crime scene, intertwined with historical undertones of the feared Antoniusfeuer, a term referring to the deadly effects of ergot poisoning from contaminated grain in the Middle Ages.
In this exciting narrative, the story begins at a birthday celebration for Ludwig Kronau, played by Frédéric Brossier. The festivities turn gruesome when Ludwig unexpectedly attacks one of his best friends at the beer garden owned by his sister, Anne Loncar, portrayed by Jessica Ginkel. Armed with a beer bottle, Ludwig fatally strikes his friend, resulting in chaos as he flees the scene, prompting an immediate investigation by the local police.
Leading the investigation is Kommissar Konrad Behringer, enacted by Antoine Monot, alongside his sharp-witted partner Klaudia Janosch, played by Cosima Henman. Their team is soon joined by the earnest yet lovestruck Oscar Renner, characterized by Oskar Keymer. The dynamics within the team offer a blend of witty dialogues and tension, especially as they adapt to unfolding events with increasing urgency.
As they delve into the details of the case, ominous signs start to emerge. The backdrop of their investigation is steeped in local history as they explore the ancient tunnel networks beneath Bamberg, which are rumored to house the legendary "Stollengespenst"—or tunnel ghost. In a pivotal scene, while investigating the echoes of the past, the team comes across a blood-soaked inscription on a subterranean wall reading, "Das Antoniusfeuer brennt!!" This unsettling message raises more questions, compelling Behringer and his team to uncover a connection between Ludwig's violent outburst and the dark history associated with the tunnel systems.
The narrative intensifies as new discoveries unfold, including the shocking revelation of Ludwig's own lifeless body in the tunnels, completely bald and presented in a manner that suggests sinister undertones. This twist deepens the mystery further, as even Ludwig's closest family, including his wife Daria, portrayed by Maria Ehrich, struggle to comprehend the transformation from a joyous birthday celebration to a scene of biochemistry gone astray.
Throughout the investigation, the interplay between Behringer, Ela, and Oscar engages viewers not only with the mystery itself but also with the budding romance developing amidst the chaos. Their character development is highlighted through light-hearted exchanges, making the crime-solving experience rich and relatable to the audience. As the investigation unfolds, Ludwig's fate intertwines with those of other citizens—like his father Alfred, masterfully represented by Thomas Sarbacher—who are central in piecing together the unfolding mystery.
Critics have noted that despite the gravity of the crimes depicted, the series maintains a balance between tense thriller elements and character-driven narratives. This episode particularly showcases the blend of mystery, humor, and historical references, effectively pulling audiences into the eerie atmosphere that surrounds the crimes committed beneath the city.
As the plot progresses, viewers witness multi-layered twists that break traditional storytelling molds. Screenwriter Berit Walch delivers a script that intricately weaves together character backgrounds, elaborate plot developments, and historical references, allowing audiences to piece the puzzle pieces together throughout the episode. Each thread revealed appears to draw from the infamous fears of past generations while illustrating how those fears resonate in the present.
The production of "Antoniusfeuer" is masterfully directed by Alexander Costea, whose previous successes signaling his storytelling flair ensures a compelling meld of suspense and historical intrigue. The tension builds as viewers are led through clues that blur the line between reality and myth, while the production pays homage to Bamberg's rich history, from its ancient tunnels to its craft beer culture.
“Behringer und die Toten – Ein Bamberg-Krimi: Antoniusfeuer” stands out not only for its gripping narrative but also for its production quality, with visuals that enhance the dark themes presented. The setting in the tunnels represents not just a backdrop but an integral part of the storytelling, becoming a character in its own right. Viewers are constantly reminded of the shadows that linger in the depths of history.
This episode continues RTL's tradition of compelling crime dramas, falling under the banner of their "Tödlicher Dienst-Tag" lineup, aimed at engaging an audience who thrives on mystery and problem-solving. The popularity of the series, evidenced by its impressive viewership in prior episodes, primes "Antoniusfeuer" to be a case study in successful storytelling within the genre.
As the show airs, fans are invited to join the excitement and unravel the mystery of who exactly holds the moral high ground in a world where the line between hero and villain is blurred. Make sure to tune in for "Antoniusfeuer" when it airs at 20:15 on RTL, and dive into the thrilling depths of crime, camaraderie, and chilling history that awaits under Bamberg's streets.
