For the TV docudrama “Das Luther-Tribunal – Zehn Tage im April | The Luther-Tribunal-TenDays in April” produced by NFP for ZDF, we meticulously reconstructed Worms as it appeared in 1521, immersing viewers in the pivotal moments of Martin Luther’s appearance at the Diet of Worms. The film features Roman Knizka as Martin Luther, Bernd Stegemann as Friedrich der Weise, Alexander Beyer as Girolamo Aleander, Mateusz Dopieralski as Karl V., and Hannes Wegener as Spalatin.

The narrative is set within the ten days from Luther’s arrival on April 16 to his departure on April 26, 1521. These critical days are depicted with dramatic date and time markers, showing how Luther faced the Imperial Council and refused to recant his teachings, unlike Jan Hus a century earlier. The film illustrates how modern political tactics such as lobbying, secret diplomacy, and strategic negotiations were employed, which resonate with contemporary issues.

“Das Luther-Tribunal” not only dramatizes the historical events but also incorporates the latest scholarly research, presenting history as an interconnected system. It highlights why Luther’s defiance became a turning point in world history, emphasizing his revolutionary vision of a direct relationship between the individual and the divine, free from church intermediaries.

This project underscores our dedication to accurate historical reconstruction, bringing to life the tense and transformative atmosphere of Worms during one of the most significant events in German history.