In a gripping new six-part thriller series, "Das zweite Attentat," audiences are taken on a whirlwind journey through the murky waters of political intrigue and personal tragedy. Set to premiere on April 9, 2025, at 20:15 on Das Erste, this production is a collaboration between WDR and ARD Degeto Film, filmed across Greece, Germany, and Luxembourg.
The narrative centers around 34-year-old photographer Alex Jaromin, played by the charismatic Noah Saavedra, who has spent two decades living under a false identity in a witness protection program in Athens. Following the cancer-related death of his mother, Alex is compelled to confront his past, which is steeped in mystery and violence. The series reveals that in 2003, Alex's father, Frank, a Bundeswehr mountain ranger, and his younger sister were victims of a brutal attack that was initially attributed to Serbian nationalists.
As Alex delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding his family's tragic history, he uncovers shocking truths. His father was not merely a soldier; he was a BND agent on a covert mission in Baghdad. Frank's task was to extract a crucial witness who possessed information that could have potentially averted the U.S. invasion of Iraq. This witness's claims were later discredited, leading to the infamous "Curveball" incident, where dubious intelligence was used to justify the war.
In an interview with teleschau, Saavedra described his character as a "rootless type" from a witness protection program, emphasizing the psychological toll of living a life devoid of genuine memories. "It's crazy to imagine someone living under a false identity, unable to recall their true past," he reflected. The series intertwines this fictional narrative with real historical events, providing a stark commentary on the political machinations that led to the Iraq War.
"Das zweite Attentat" is not just a personal story; it also serves as a critique of political lies and the impact of populism in contemporary society. Saavedra noted the relevance of the series to today's political climate, stating, "The lie as a political tool is very current today. It’s shocking how easily people can accept falsehoods that serve specific agendas." His remarks resonate with the series' exploration of how misinformation can lead to catastrophic consequences.
The series features a talented ensemble cast, including Désirée Nosbusch as BKA officer Hanne Lay, who investigates the events surrounding Alex's family tragedy both in 2003 and in the present day. The plot unfolds through a dual timeline, with flashbacks to the early 2000s, showcasing the intricate web of espionage and betrayal that characterized that era.
With direction by Barbara Eder and Philipp Osthus, the series promises to deliver high production values, compelling storytelling, and intense performances. The writing team, led by headwriter Oliver Bottini, has crafted a narrative that engages viewers with its twists and turns, while also prompting them to reflect on the broader implications of the story.
As Alex navigates the treacherous waters of his investigation, he finds himself pursued by assassins intent on silencing him before he can expose the truth. The stakes are high, and the tension escalates as he races against time to uncover the secrets that have haunted him for years.
"Das zweite Attentat" not only serves as an engaging thriller but also a poignant reminder of the personal costs of political decisions. The series invites viewers to question the narratives presented to them and consider the real-life implications of political deceit.
In addition to its gripping storyline, the series has already garnered attention for its timely themes. With the political landscape today rife with misinformation and populism, Saavedra's reflections on the ease with which lies can be propagated resonate strongly. He stated, "It’s astonishing how emotional messages from populist parties can sway public opinion, despite their often dubious foundations."
The series will air in two blocks, with episodes 1 to 3 premiering on April 9 and episodes 4 to 6 following on April 11, 2025, at 22:20. For those eager to dive into the story before its television debut, the entire series is available for streaming on the ARD Mediathek.
As audiences prepare to witness Alex's harrowing journey, the anticipation builds not just for the thrilling plot but for the deeper conversations it promises to ignite regarding truth, justice, and the political narratives that shape our world.
In a world where the line between fact and fiction often blurs, "Das zweite Attentat" stands as a powerful exploration of the consequences of deception and the enduring quest for truth.
