DR Sales, the international sales arm of Danish pubcaster DR, has recently announced its involvement in the upcoming TV drama “The Best of Families.” This six-part limited series, created by Maja Jul Larsen and produced by Piv Bernth, delves into the real events surrounding Denmark’s ChemiNova chemical factory in the early 1950s. The show sheds light on the human and moral consequences of ChemiNova’s rapid success story.
Originally presented at Berlinale’s Co-Pro Series in 2025, “The Best of Families” is now in production under the helm of Piv Bernth’s Apple Tree Productions, which is set to close its doors by the end of the year. Inspired by Kim Blæsbjerg’s award-winning novel of the same name, the series spans a decade, chronicling the rise of the ChemiNova factory and the detrimental effects it has on the land and its people.
At the core of the narrative are three women – Margrethe, Karin, and Gudrun – and two brothers, Niels and Erik. As the prosperity promised by ChemiNova gives way to environmental degradation and moral compromises, a reckoning looms on the horizon that can no longer be ignored.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including seasoned actors like Mikkel Boe Følsgaard, Lars Ranthe, and Ane Stensgaard Juul, alongside emerging talents Mathilde Eusebius, Tue Lunding, and Morten Agerholm. Commissioned by DR and supported by the West Danish Film Fund and the Nordisk Film and TV Fund, “The Best of Families” is expected to premiere on DR in February 2027, followed by a festival debut.
As part of the N12 collaboration with Nordic broadcasters NRK, SVT, Yle, and RÚV, “The Best of Families” aims to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and stellar performances. With a planned premiere on DR in February 2027 and a festival premiere in the spring of the same year, this gripping drama is set to make a lasting impact on viewers.
In the accompanying image, Piv Bernth and Maja Jul Larsen are pictured from left to right, highlighting the creative minds behind this eagerly anticipated series. Stay tuned for more updates on “The Best of Families” as it gears up for its premiere and festival debut.
