Netflix has set its first co-production with Swiss network RTS.
The project, a French and English-language period drama titled “Winter Palace,” will chart the birth of winter tourism in the Alps as conceived by a Swiss hotelier and British aristocrat in the early twentieth century.
Based on true events, “Winter Palace” is centred around ambitious proprietor Andre Morel, who, in 1899, envisions a five-star luxury hotel that will remain open throughout winter. He convinces wealthy aristo Lord Fairfax to come on board, and the two find themselves battling demanding clientele, rebellious staff and a hostile climate to make their dream a reality.
The eight-part series, which is based on an original story by Swiss producer Jean-Marc Fröhle, is being produced by Fröhle’s Swiss-based Point Prod (“Banking District”) and French outfit Oble Studios (“Fata Morgana”).
Lindsay Shapero has written the screenplay alongside Stephane Mitchell. Pierre Monnard has been lined up to direct.
“Having just secured the perfect shooting locations, we are excited about the breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary places that viewers will get to discover,” said Fröhle. “‘Winter Palace’ is a grand period drama with a very modern writing style crafted by the talented Lindsay Shapero. Casting is currently underway in Switzerland, France and the U.K., as the series will be shot both in English and French.”
Françoise Mayor, head of fiction and focumentaries at RTS, added: “The support of Netflix makes the production of this Swiss initiative possible, and it will soon shine worldwide, to the delight of both our audience and this new international player in the Swiss audiovisual industry.”
“Winter Palace” is due to go into production next month in the Swiss Alps and has been given a late 2024 release date.
According to the terms of the deal, Swiss viewers will be able to watch the series first on RTS1 and Play Suisse before the series hits Netflix globally (including Switzerland).