UFA GmbH
UFA GmbH (formerly UFA Film GmbH) is a German film and television production company, a subsidiary of Bertelsmann. Founded on December 18, 1917, as Universum Film AG (UFA), it became a major force in German cinema during the Weimar Republic and the Nazi era.
History:
Originally established with government support to produce propaganda films during World War I, UFA quickly expanded into entertainment productions. After the war, under the leadership of figures like Erich Pommer, UFA became internationally renowned for its innovative and technically advanced films, contributing significantly to the Golden Age of German cinema. Notable films from this period include Metropolis (1927) and The Blue Angel (1930).
During the Nazi regime, UFA was nationalized and used extensively for propaganda purposes. After World War II, the company was broken up and reorganized.
In 1964, Bertelsmann acquired a significant stake in UFA, eventually gaining full control. The company shifted its focus towards television production in the late 20th century and is now one of Germany's largest television production companies.
Present Day:
Today, UFA GmbH encompasses several production units, including UFA Fiction, UFA Serial Drama, UFA Show & Factual, and UFA Documentary. These units produce a wide range of programming for German and international television, including drama series, soap operas, entertainment shows, and documentaries. UFA is also involved in film production, although its focus is primarily on television.
Key People:
Over the years, UFA has been associated with many influential figures in the film and television industry, including:
- Erich Pommer (Producer)
- Fritz Lang (Director)
- Marlene Dietrich (Actress)
- Joseph Goebbels (Nazi Propaganda Minister)
Significance:
UFA GmbH holds a significant place in the history of German cinema and television. It represents both the artistic achievements of the early German film industry and the exploitation of film for political purposes during the Nazi era. Its current success as a television production company demonstrates its ability to adapt and remain a major player in the media landscape.