A feature film recounting the tragic events of Swissair Flight 111 in 1998 has recently commenced production, backed by Zurich-based C-Films AG and Nova Scotia’s Auguste Content.
In an exclusive to Variety, the production companies revealed details about the international cast, featuring actors such as Kris Holden-Ried (“Departure”), Natalie Brown (“The Strain”), Eric Keenleyside (“Superman & Lois”), Ursina Lardi (“The White Ribbon”), Anatole Taubman (“Zwingli”), Djebril Zonga (“Les Misérables”), and Fathia Youssouf (“Cuties”).
Titled “111,” the film explores the narratives of individuals impacted by the crash that occurred off the coast of Nova Scotia near Margaret’s Bay on September 2, 1998. Leading the project is Mexican-Swiss director Mauro Mueller, known for “A World for Raúl,” who co-wrote the screenplay with U.S. writer Jennie Allen.
Filming kicked off in Halifax on September 18 and will continue throughout Nova Scotia, as well as in Zurich and surrounding areas, until the end of October. Elevation Pictures is set to release the film in Canada, while Ascot Elite Entertainment will handle distribution in Switzerland. Global Screen, part of the Vuelta Group, is managing worldwide sales.
Mueller reflected on the emotional impact of the Swissair 111 crash, stating, “As a frequent traveler, this incident profoundly affected me. I’m intrigued by how random encounters can lead to important moments or, in this case, unite people in tragedy.”
He clarified the film’s intention, saying, “We are not aiming to create a sensationalized disaster movie or provide a literal retelling of the tragedy. Instead, we seek to craft a nuanced, emotional tribute to those who endure in the face of adversity. This film is also a gentle reminder to appreciate life’s daily gifts.”
Produced by Anne Walser, co-owner of C-Films AG, and Björn Hering, CEO of Auguste Content, “111” stems from an idea proposed by Hering. Fidelio Films, an international production company with locations in Toronto, Mexico City, Bogotá, and Zurich, is also among the producers.
Swiss producer Walser emphasized the film’s global relevance: “’111’ embodies a ‘glocal’ spirit—firmly rooted in local experiences yet resonating worldwide. We are depicting a Swiss tragedy that involved over two dozen nations and irrevocably changed countless lives.”
Bernier, a Canadian producer, added, “The Swissair 111 tragedy not only brought sorrow to Nova Scotia but also united Canada, Switzerland, and the world in confronting the unimaginable. We aspire for this film to celebrate the strength of unity across borders and honor the memory of those we lost.”
Collaborating partners from Switzerland include co-producer Schweizer Fernsehen SRF, the Zurich Film Foundation, the Federal Office of Culture, and Suissimage. Canadian support comes from Telefilm Canada, the Nova Scotia Film & Television Incentive Fund, the Screen Nova Scotia Content Creator Fund, and the Canadian Audio Visual Certification Office.