Hollywood Meets History in North Rhine-Westphalia
The picturesque German state of North Rhine-Westphalia is set to become a new hotspot for film enthusiasts, thanks to A24’s latest psychological drama, ‘Mother Mary’. The highly anticipated film, starring Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel, has chosen two of the region’s most enchanting moated castles, Burg Adendorf and Burg Müddersheim, as central locations for its atmospheric storytelling. This move places these centuries-old heritage sites on the global map, promising a future surge in what is known as “film tourism.”
The film, which chronicles the complex relationship between a pop musician and a fashion designer, is slated for a theatrical release on April 24, 2026. The production’s decision to film in Germany highlights a growing trend of major studios looking beyond traditional locations to find authentic settings that enrich their narratives.
The Power of the Silver Screen: Film Tourism’s Economic Impact
The phenomenon of locations becoming tourist destinations after appearing in films or television series is a powerful economic driver. We’ve seen it transform regions around the world.
- New Zealand: The ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies have had a lasting impact. Pre-pandemic data from Tourism New Zealand showed that 18% of all international visitors cited the films as a reason for their trip, contributing significantly to the country’s multi-billion dollar tourism industry.
- Croatia: The city of Dubrovnik saw a monumental increase in tourism after being featured as King’s Landing in HBO’s ‘Game of Thrones’.
- United Kingdom: VisitBritain reports that film tourism brings in an estimated £140 million annually to the UK economy, with locations from ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Downton Abbey’ drawing millions of visitors.
‘Mother Mary’ is poised to create a similar effect for North Rhine-Westphalia, a region rich in history but perhaps less known to international film tourists than Bavaria or Berlin.
A Closer Look at the Filming Locations
The choice of Burg Adendorf and Burg Müddersheim was deliberate. The production team aimed to ground the film’s unsettling and supernatural themes in a world with a tangible sense of history. These locations provide just that.
Burg Adendorf & Burg Müddersheim: Centuries of Drama
Both castles are classic examples of Wasserburgen (moated castles), a common architectural style in this part of Germany.
- Burg Adendorf: Located in the municipality of Wachtberg, its origins trace back to the 14th century. The elegant baroque manor, surrounded by water, offers a fairy-tale yet imposing facade, perfect for a story blending glamour and psychological tension.
- Burg Müddersheim: Situated near Vettweiß, this castle also boasts a history spanning over 700 years. Its robust towers and historic courtyards provide a dramatic and authentic medieval backdrop.
While both castles are primarily used for private events and are not consistently open to the public, their newfound fame will likely lead to increased interest, potentially opening doors for special tours or viewing opportunities for film fans.
The “Mother Mary” Effect: What to Expect
The release of ‘Mother Mary’ will undoubtedly cast an international spotlight on this corner of Germany. We can predict several key impacts:
- Increased Tourism: A significant influx of tourists, especially from North America and Europe, is expected. Visitors will be eager to walk the grounds where Hathaway and Coel brought their characters to life.
- Economic Boost: Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in the surrounding areas of Wachtberg and Vettweiß, will benefit from the increased visitor traffic.
- A New Filming Hub: The success and high-profile nature of this A24 production could attract other international filmmakers to North Rhine-Westphalia. The region is already a major German media hub, supported by organizations like the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW, which provides millions in funding annually to support film and television production.
This development serves as a reminder for travelers to look beyond the obvious destinations. The quiet, historic castles of Germany, steeped in centuries of real-life drama, are now ready for their close-up, offering a new and exciting reason to explore the heart of Europe.
