Paris Has Fallen: ZDF’s Take on Action

Paris Has Fallen, a 2016 action thriller, isn’t a typical ZDF production. While the German public broadcaster is known for its news, documentaries, and dramas, this film, a sequel to Olympus Has Fallen, represents a foray (albeit indirect) into the high-octane world of Hollywood action. ZDF, along with other European broadcasters, often co-finances international productions, granting them broadcasting rights within their respective territories. This is how Paris Has Fallen, with its explosions and gunfights, found its way onto German television screens.

The film follows Secret Service agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) as he protects U.S. President Benjamin Asher (Aaron Eckhart) amidst a coordinated terrorist attack on London during the funeral of the British Prime Minister. The attack decimates world leaders, leaving Banning and Asher to fend for themselves against overwhelming odds. Their desperate flight takes them to Paris, where they continue to evade capture and attempt to thwart the terrorists’ ultimate goal.

Paris Has Fallen distinguishes itself (or attempts to) from its predecessor with a larger scale and increased stakes. The destruction is widespread, and the tension is palpable. However, it also falls prey to criticisms common in action films: a simplistic plot, reliance on predictable tropes, and potential over-the-top violence. The film’s depiction of terrorism also drew scrutiny, particularly in the context of real-world events.

For ZDF viewers, Paris Has Fallen offered a different viewing experience compared to their usual programming. It provided a dose of Hollywood spectacle and escapism. However, some German critics questioned the appropriateness of such a violent film being broadcast on a public channel, particularly given ZDF’s mandate to provide informative and socially relevant content. The film’s broadcast sparked debates about the role of public broadcasters in acquiring and showcasing international entertainment, particularly when that entertainment pushes the boundaries of violence and realism.

Ultimately, Paris Has Fallen on ZDF represents a complex intersection of international film financing, broadcasting rights, and public service mandates. It’s a reminder that even national broadcasters like ZDF are influenced by global entertainment trends and the demand for action-packed thrillers, even if the content sometimes contrasts with their core programming values. It opened the door for further acquisitions of similar genre movies, allowing German viewers to enjoy Hollywood action alongside ZDF’s more traditional fare.