Bertha Benz: The Trailblazer Behind the Modern Car
All Quiet on the Western Front co-writer Lesley Paterson is set to create the script for a ground-breaking feature film inspired by a **VR experience** centered on the life of Bertha Benz, who is the wife of the renowned inventor Carl Benz—the “father of the modern car.” This exciting new project highlights an underrepresented figure in automotive history, shedding light on Bertha’s pivotal role.
The Inspiration Behind the Script
Paterson, also known for her co-writing work in the **nine-time Oscar-nominated** film (which includes **Best Adapted Screenplay**), shared her enthusiasm with The Hollywood Reporter. She described how she became captivated by Bertha’s story after participating in the **VR game** titled Trailblazer: The Untold Story of Bertha Benz as an executive producer. “It really is the DNA of the types of stories I like to tell,” Paterson said. Her passion for stories featuring **resilience**, **overcoming obstacles**, and **female empowerment** resonates deeply with many audiences today.
A Pioneering Journey
Notably, Bertha Benz made history in 1888 when she embarked on the world’s first **long-distance road trip** to demonstrate her husband’s invention, the **Motorwagen**. This venture not only showcased the car to a skeptical public and press but also helped establish the automobile’s viability as a transportation medium. The film aims to narrate her brave journey while emphasizing the **innovation** and courage behind her actions.
Director and Collaboration
The film will be directed by Emmy-nominated Eloise Singer, who is also the creator of the **VR experience** Trailblazer. Singer, based in London at Singer Studios, is thrilled about collaborating with Paterson. “We just got on so well,” she mentioned to THR about their relationship, which began several years ago when Paterson appeared on her podcast. Singer emphasized the uniqueness of transitioning from **VR storytelling** to film, noting that this approach is relatively unexplored in the industry.
Star Power and Backing
Daisy Ridley, widely recognized for her iconic role in the Star Wars franchise, brings her talent to the project not only as the narrator of Bertha Benz but also as an executive producer. Ridley’s involvement further elevates the film’s profile, appealing to both fans of her previous works and newcomers interested in Bertha’s story.
Future Prospects and Distribution
When asked about **distribution** plans, Paterson expressed optimism about the possibility of the film appearing on platforms like **Netflix**. She clarified, “We’ll definitely take it to [Netflix],” particularly in light of the successful reception of All Quiet on the Western Front. However, she emphasized the absolute necessity of having a script finalized before engaging with potential distributors. “One of the things I’ve experienced as a writer and producer is if you go in without a script, you have less power in the deals,” she advised.
Engaging Audiences through VR
Trailblazer invites audiences to step into the shoes of Bertha, offering an immersive experience where they can explore her workshop and assemble the very engine that redefined transportation. This educational and interactive format makes it easier for viewers to connect with Bertha’s legacy and understand the challenges she faced. The experience originally premiered at notable events such as the **Venice Film Festival** and **SXSW** in 2024, prior to Ridley’s involvement. This transition from **VR** to traditional film storytelling aims to engage an even wider audience.
Conclusion
The upcoming film about Bertha Benz has the potential to be a pivotal cinematic journey, one that not only honors a historical figure but also champions **female empowerment** and **innovation** in the automotive industry. With a talented team and a captivating story, the film is set to inspire viewers and educate them on the legacy of Bertha, proving that the role of women in history is both significant and often overlooked.