Game of Keys: How Intimacy Coordinators Boosted Prime Video’s Latest Hit

EXCLUSIVE: Leaders of the new provocative German series on Prime Video, tentatively titled Game of Keys, are advocating for the involvement of intimacy coordinators right from the initial stages of production.

Producers Ulrike Leibfried and Sinah Swyter of UFA Fiction brought on Emilia Bähr, an intimacy coordinator, starting from the casting phase, which significantly influenced the series’ development and enhanced actor comfort. Although Prime Video frequently uses intimacy coordinators, their involvement from such an early phase is not common.

“Emilia joined us during castings, sat alongside our directors, allowing our cast to become acquainted with her early on, which fostered a strong rapport,” Swyter explained. “We aimed for a varied portrayal of sensuality in Game of Keys. The intimate scenes range from humorous to intense and emotional, making them crucial to the storyline. Emilia’s input on the scripts was invaluable, providing our directors with a reliable consultant.”

This approach was vital for a show deeply embedded in themes of sexuality.

Featuring actors like Paula Kalenberg and Martin Bruchmann, Game of Keys, inspired by a Mexican original on Prime Video from the previous decade, centers on longtime friends who start a bold new game. They toss their keys into a bowl, and each person pairs with the owner of the key they pick for the night. What starts as a thrilling venture quickly escalates into a complex web of emotions.

“Creating a safe environment from the beginning was paramount,” Leibfried emphasized. Bähr tailored her involvement in specific scenes based on their context.

While intimacy coordinators have faced criticism from major actors like Gwyneth Paltrow, Leibfried believes their early engagement is crucial, especially in sensitive or potentially distressing scenes. “Being prepared can make all the difference,” she noted.

Having previously collaborated on successful projects like Maxton Hall – The World Between Us, Prime Video Germany approached the Fremantle-owned UFA Fiction to develop a German adaptation of Game of Keys. Leibfried’s experience with the German series Doctor’s Diary, known for its light-hearted yet poignant moments, proved beneficial in adding a unique flair to Game of Keys.

“From Mexico City to Suburban Secrets”

The original Mexican version, which debuted seven years ago, differs from the German adaptation, which moves at a quicker pace and includes fewer episodes.

The setting shift also alters the tone. Unlike the liberal backdrop of Mexico City, the German version is set in an unnamed suburban town.

“We decided against setting the show in Berlin, which has a very open sexual culture, and opted for a more suburban setting,” Leibfried explained. “It adds a layer of surprise and complexity to the storyline, particularly with a character who is coming out.”

This adjustment also aims to resonate more with German audiences by providing a broader, more relatable approach to sexuality.

“We aimed to normalize the concept of the game and focus on its impact on everyday people,” added Swyter.

The series is set to premiere today at Seriencamp in Cologne and may launch later this year.

Leibfried hinted at the possibility of an American adaptation, noting, “I think the U.S. might be open to considering remakes,” but emphasized that the German Game of Keys is universally accessible.

“We believe the show has the potential to resonate globally,” Swyter concluded.

Seriencamp concludes today.