In a compelling three-part docuseries, Netflix delves into the haunting events of August 1978 that rocked Europe and continue to perplex to this day. ‘The King Who Never Was’ focuses on the shocking incident involving Prince Victor Emmanuel of Savoy, the last heir to the Italian throne, during his summer vacation at his residence on the island of Cavallo, France. Directed by Beatrice Borromeo Casiraghi, the docuseries unravels the tragic night when the prince shot a young German tourist, Dirk Hamer, sleeping on a boat near the shores of Cavallo.
The series pieces together the puzzle through interviews with eyewitnesses who shed light on the events of that fateful night. The incident occurred when a group of Italian partygoers used the dinghy from Victor Emmanuel’s yacht to reach the mainland, leading to the prince’s outburst of anger. While the prince admits to firing his rifle, he claims that it was a second gun that resulted in Dirk Hamer’s fatal injuries.
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The legal battle that followed spanned over a decade, with Victor Emmanuel ultimately being acquitted of murder charges but sentenced to six months in prison for carrying the firearm outside his home. Birgit Hamer, Dirk’s sister and a witness to the tragic event, relentlessly pursued justice, only to be devastated by the verdict.
Beatrice Borromeo Casiraghi, who helmed the docuseries, poured two and a half years into the project, driven by a personal connection to the story. Her mother, Paola Marzotto, was a close friend of Birgit, and the affair had been part of Casiraghi’s family discussions since childhood. She recalls feeling a certain helplessness and fascination with the case, which ultimately influenced her decision to become a journalist.
The series uncovered several new revelations, bringing clarity to a story clouded by confusion. The defense strategy employed by Victor Emmanuel’s lawyers aimed to create uncertainty around the incident, with the “phantom shooter theory” and ballistic examinations indicating that it could not be proven with certainty that the fatal shot came from the prince’s rifle.
Two key female figures emerged as protagonists in the series: Birgit Hamer and Marina Doria, Victor Emmanuel’s wife. While the focus is on the prince, Marina played a significant role in the defense. Casiraghi conducted audio interviews with Doria, who chose not to appear on camera due to her age. The cooperation of Doria’s son, Emanuele Filiberto, was instrumental in approaching his parents and facilitating the interviews.
Casiraghi’s commitment to telling the truth and her relentless pursuit of justice allowed her to capture the most comprehensive account of the tragic event. The series brought forth the memories and materials from witnesses who had not spoken about the incident for over four decades.
‘The King Who Never Was’ serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of unresolved truths and the importance of seeking justice. The docuseries has shed light on a decades-long mystery and brought closure to a painful chapter in Casiraghi’s life.
As she looks to the future, Casiraghi is embarking on her next ambitious project: ‘The Crown’ about the Grimaldi family of Monaco, the longest-living royal family in Europe. Astrea Films, Casiraghi’s production company, is set to produce the film, focusing on the seizure of Monaco’s fortress by the Grimaldi family during the Middle Ages.
With ‘The King Who Never Was’ set to captivate audiences with its gripping storytelling and profound revelations, Casiraghi’s work continues to make a meaningful impact in the world of filmmaking. The docuseries is a testament to her dedication to unraveling the truth and sharing compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
‘The King Who Never Was’ stands as an enthralling exploration of a scandal that shook Europe, expertly narrated by Beatrice Borromeo Casiraghi, who has brought forth a poignant account of events that continue to hold significance in the present day. As the series unravels the truth, it serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of unresolved narratives and the importance of seeking justice. With her commitment to storytelling and filmmaking, Casiraghi’s future projects are sure to make waves in the industry, continuing to shed light on untold stories and captivating audiences worldwide.