KUI BURI - THAILAND'S HIDDEN EDEN
In a remote corner of Southeast Asia lies a lush sanctuary, teeming with rare wildlife and dramatic encounters between some of the world’s largest land animals.
This is the story of a Garden of Eden hidden deep in the jungles of South East Asia. A national park that is home to an almost unimaginable variety of wildlife. The park is known not only for its myriad species, but also for its abundance of large animals such as the Asian elephant and its wild cattle. It is home to the rare gaur, the largest bovine in the world, and the smaller banteng. At some point in the past, the gaur and the banteng crossed, mated and bred in a freak of nature. The result is an extremely rare hybrid - the Krathing Daeng - better known to the world as the Red Bull.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Production Year 2021-2023
52 min. Ultra High Definition, 16:9, Dolby 5.1
Produced by Terra Mater Studios
AUSTRIA'S NATURAL HERITAGE - THE BEGINNINGS
From the storm-swept summit of Großglockner to the lush wetlands of the Donau-Auen, Austria’s six National Parks protect a remarkable diversity of landscapes and wildlife.
This film explores the origins and significance of Austria’s National Parks, highlighting their role in preserving the country’s natural heritage. Journey through alpine peaks, ancient forests, and vibrant river valleys, and discover the unique species and ecosystems that call these protected areas home.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by Interspot Film
BRAHMAPUTRA - SKY RIVER OF THE HIMALAYAS
Some things on our planet may be too small to notice – and some are simply too big to grasp. The Brahmaputra is among the latter...
The Brahmaputra - Sky River of the Himalayas. This film explores the majestic Brahmaputra River, one of the mightiest rivers in the world. Originating from the glaciers of the Himalayas, the Brahmaputra flows through India, Bangladesh, and Tibet, sustaining millions of people and countless wildlife species. Discover the cultural and spiritual significance of this great river, and witness the breathtaking landscapes it traverses. From the snow-capped mountains to the lush plains, experience the beauty and power of the Brahmaputra.
EPISODE III
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by Pretv
ZEPPELIN-SKIING
An audacious adventure: reaching remote mountain slopes by Zeppelin, then descending into the unknown for a unique skiing experience.
Who needs ski lifts when you have a Zeppelin? In this high-flying alpine adventure, a crew of thrill-seekers floats majestically over the mountains like snow-loving Bond villains, scouting untouched powder from the clouds. It’s absurd, bold, and brilliantly fun—skiing meets airship in a gravity-defying spectacle.
Idea: Stefan Ager, Andreas Gumpenberger
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by Lenscape
AUSTRIA'S NATURAL HERITAGE - THE CHALLENGES
Across approximately three percent of Austria's landscape, nature flourishes in protected parks, but these sanctuaries face mounting threats in a changing world.
This documentary delves into the ongoing challenges confronting Austria’s National Parks, from climate change and invasive species to human encroachment. Meet the scientists, rangers, and conservationists working tirelessly to safeguard these vital refuges for future generations.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by Interspot Film
MORE THAN JUST ENEMIES
Two empires, two destinies: Prince Eugene of Savoy and Gülnüs, concubine in the harem of Sultan Mehmet IV. Their lives shaped the fate of Europe and the Ottoman world, where rivalry and inspiration went hand in hand.
This is the story of two empires at their zenith—and two extraordinary personalities who left their mark on history. On one side, Prince Eugene of Savoy rises from a neglected childhood at the court of Louis XIV to become a brilliant commander, the richest man of his era, and ultimately a solitary figure in decline. On the other, Gülnüs, kidnapped from Crete, ascends to power as the mother of two sultans, wielding immense influence over the Ottoman Empire’s destiny. Through war and peace, these civilizations clashed and inspired each other, exchanging masterpieces of art and music. More than just enemies, they were rivals and creators in a world of shifting power.
Written by Martin Betz, directed by Heinz Leger
Production Year: 2013 - 2014
2 x 52 min. High Definition, 16:9, Dolby 5.1
Produced by pretv for ORF and arte
CHAMPIONS VS. LEGENDS
Champions versus Legends: The ultimate showdown between modern superstars and legendary champions. Can today’s record holders surpass the icons of the past?
See young Austrian star Manuel Feller take on the best skier of the 1980s and 1990s, Marc Girardelli. Prepare for an epic duel as Canadian hockey star Shea Weber faces the NHL's legendary Bobby Hull and his lightning-fast slap shot. Guided by esteemed sports scientist Steve Haake, we get to the bottom of the question:
Can the modern record holder surpass the legendary champion? To find out, we equip today’s sports stars with ancient equipment and challenge them to master classic techniques. Who will emerge victorious in this extraordinary test of skill and athleticism?
The competitors:
Alpine skiing: Manuel Feller versus Marc Girardelli
Sit-ski: Anna Schaffelhuber
Ice Hockey: Shea Weber
Speed Skating: Christine Nesbitt
Bobsleigh: Maximilian Arndt
Directed by Heinz Leger
50 min. High Definition, 16:9, Stereo
Produced by KENSINGTON, berlin productions and preTV
RACE TO THE SOUTHPOLE
Antarctica: the ultimate white wilderness. Two teams, one epic race—who will conquer the coldest, driest, highest continent on earth and reach the South Pole first?
Antarctica is the highest, driest and coldest continent on earth—a place where only the toughest survive. In this five-part adventure, two teams set out to conquer the southernmost point of our planet. The Austrian team, led by Olympic legend Hermann Maier and radio host Tom Walek, features Sabrina Grillitsch—Austria’s first and only female special forces soldier—and champion husky racer Alexander Serdjukov. Their rivals: the German team, led by TV presenter Markus Lanz and ultra-marathon runner Joey Kelly. After a week of acclimatisation on the edge of the ice, both teams embark on a 400 km journey to the South Pole, skiing across the polar desert and carrying everything they need to survive. It’s a test of endurance, teamwork, and sheer willpower—where every step is a battle against the elements.
A 5-part series by Heinz Leger and Oliver Halmburger
Year of production: 2010 - 2011
5 x 45 min. High Definition, 16:9
Produced by Loop-Film and Interspot Film for ORF and ZDF
HERMANN MAIER: MEINE HEIMAT, DIE HOHEN TAUERN
Candyfloss clouds, a deep blue sky, and two mountaineers on Austria’s highest peak—Hermann Maier and his guide journey into the wild heart of the Hohe Tauern, where nature still reigns supreme.
In the Hohe Tauern National Park, an island of wilderness rises above a sea of tamed land. After conquering Antarctica in the 'Race to the South Pole', Hermann Maier returns to his roots, exploring the majestic Alps. Alongside his guide, he ascends Austria’s highest peak beneath candyfloss clouds and a dark blue sky. Here, Hermann meets the guardians of this natural jewel—people who dedicate their lives to protecting the park and thriving in the challenging world of the high mountains.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Production year: 2013
45 min. High Definition, 16:9, Stereo
Produced by Interspot Film for ORF
THE SHERPAS' QUEST
Was Everest truly first conquered by Hillary and Norgay—or did Mallory and Irvine reach the summit decades earlier? Join the Sherpas on a quest to solve one of mountaineering’s greatest mysteries.
The summit of Mount Everest holds secrets that have fascinated climbers for generations. Did Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay really stand atop the world’s highest peak first, or did British climbers George Mallory and Sandy Irvine achieve the feat long before, vanishing on their descent? The answer may lie in a small camera lost on the mountain—and in the story of Mallory’s recently discovered remains. In this gripping adventure, a team of Sherpas—legendary for their skill and courage—set out to uncover the truth behind Everest’s greatest enigma.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Year of production: 2011
53 min. High Definition, 16:9, Dolby 5.1
Produced by pretv for: Terra Mater Studios, Servus TV, BBC
THE FUTURE OF...
Presented by Helmut Pechlaner, director of the world’s oldest zoo, this series follows scientists and conservationists working worldwide to ensure the survival of endangered species.
A 12-part series that travels the planet in search of the future for endangered species. Each episode journeys into the front lines of wildlife conservation, offering exclusive access to scientists working to save elephants, great apes, whales, rhinos, tigers, sharks, and more. The series highlights both the challenges and triumphs that define the fight to ensure these iconic animals have a future.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by Interspot Film
GENGHIS KHAN - RIDER OF THE APOCALYPSE
The story of Genghis Khan, the legendary warlord who forged the largest empire in history and changed the world forever.
The infamous Genghis Khan was born around 850 years ago and became the ruler of the largest empire in world history. In doing so, he changed the course of history like no other before or since. In this opulent film with hundreds of actors, we find out how this world-changing figure came to be. Elaborate scenes bring to life the lost world of the most powerful and feared warlord in history.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Year of production: 2004
55 min. HDTV, 16:9, dolby 5.1, produced by Interspot Film for:
ORF, BBC, DDE, ZDF, CANAL +
WILD MONGOLIA
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Mongolia. From the vast steppes to the rugged mountains, discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of this remote country.
Scorching sun in one half of the year. In the other, biting frost.
Mongolia is a land of extremes. With such a hostile climate, the abundance of wildlife is a surprise. Over time, people and animals have learnt to cope with the harsh conditions. In this land, life and death lie close together. Both the hunters and their prey have found amazing survival strategies. Fascinating wild animals in a hostile environment and breathtaking landscapes - that is Wild Mongolia.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Year of production: 2006
50 min. HDTV, 16:9 stereo, produced by Interspot Film for:
ORF, CANAL +, WDR, NDR
MOUNT ST. HELENS - LIFE FROM ZERO
When the mountain roared, life vanished in an instant. But from the ashes of Mount St. Helens, a new world began—where every sprout is a miracle and every day is a second chance.
On 18 May 1980, one of the greatest natural disasters of our time struck the north-west of the United States. Mount St. Helens exploded, hurling millions of tonnes of molten rock into the sky. A wave of hot gases swept over the forests, wiping out all life. In seconds, a lush mountain landscape became a barren desert—lifeless as Mars.
Could nature ever recover from such devastation? How would life return, and how long would it take? For 22-year-old biology student Charlie Crisafulli, the eruption turned the mountain into a living laboratory. Over three decades, he and his colleagues watched as life crept back—tiny plants, insects, and animals reclaiming the wasteland. This is the astonishing story of nature’s resilience at ground zero, where every green shoot is a triumph against the odds.
Written and directed by Jörg D. Hissen and Heinz Leger
Production Year: 2008 - 2010
52 mins. High Definition, 16:9, Dolby 5.1
Produced by Interspot-Film for ORF, WGBH-Boston, arte, Fremantle
THE VALLEY AT THE BORDER
A valley that is both a paradise and a prison: the 'Gran Chaco' in South America. Here, nature is untouched, but the indigenous people suffer from poverty and lack of prospects.
The Gran Chaco in South America is a region of stark contrasts. This film portrays the beauty of the untouched nature and the rich culture of the indigenous people, while also shedding light on the poverty and challenges they face. It is a story of survival, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a people deeply connected to their land.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Year of production: 1999
50 min. Digi-Beta, 16:9 stereo, produced by Lotus Film for: ORF
THE ARLBERG - LAND OF CONTRASTS
The Arlberg region is renowned for its winter tourism, but it offers much more than that! For almost a century, these mountains have been a popular destination...
The Arlberg region is renowned for its winter tourism, but it offers much more than that! For almost a century, these mountains have been a popular destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. The film takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the Arlberg, showcasing its majestic mountains, pristine valleys, and charming villages. Discover the rich history and culture of this unique region, and learn why it continues to be a beloved destination for travelers from around the world.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by FilmEleven
BRIXENTAL - THE HEART OF THE KITZBÜHEL ALPS
In the heart of the Tyrolean region lies a striking contrast: the awe-inspiring Hahnenkamm...stands side by side with the tranquil Brixental.
In the heart of the Tyrolean region lies a striking contrast: the awe-inspiring Hahnenkamm, a mountain that challenges the bravest of climbers, stands side by side with the tranquil Brixental, a valley that offers peace and serenity. This film explores the unique characteristics of these two iconic locations, showcasing the natural beauty and diverse landscapes that make the Kitzbühel Alps a must-visit destination. Experience the thrill of the climb and the calm of the valley in this captivating journey through one of Austria's most beautiful regions.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
52 min. HD, 16:9, Dolby 5.1, produced by FilmEleven
THE TRIGLAV – A MOUNTAIN LIKE A KINGDOM
Triglav is not a mountain, it is a kingdom. This legendary peak, revered by mountaineers and poets alike, stands as the heart and soul of Slovenia’s wild beauty.
“Triglav is not a mountain, Triglav is a kingdom.” With these words, Julius Kugy captured the spirit of Slovenia’s highest peak. The north face of Triglav is a true giant—over 1,500 metres of sheer rock, one of the highest and most formidable walls in the Eastern Alps. Renowned climbers Marko Prezelj and Hanspeter Eisendle take on a daring route to the Sphinx, a dramatic rock formation crowning this breathtaking wall. From the summit, a world of vibrant meadows and rich wildlife unfolds, revealing Triglav as a true biodiversity hotspot. This is a journey into the heart of a landscape where nature reigns supreme.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
48 min. High Definition, 16:9, Stereo
Produced by pretv for SERVUS TV
HERMANN MAIER: MEINE HEIMAT, DER DACHSTEIN
Step by step, under the watchful eyes of chamois, Hermann Maier and alpine vet Chris Walzer ascend through deep snow to the summit of the Dachstein—where wild nature meets human resilience in the heart of the Alps.
In the shadow of the Dachstein, Styria’s highest peak, two ski tourers make their way through a winter wilderness. Hermann Maier, legendary athlete, and Chris Walzer, renowned wildlife vet, journey together across a landscape where nature still reigns. After conquering Antarctica in the 'Race to the South Pole', Hermann returns to his roots, exploring the wild heart of the Alps. Here, the Dachstein rises like an island in a sea of tamed land. Along the way, Hermann meets those who protect the region’s wildlife and have learned to thrive in the harsh, beautiful world of the high mountains.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Production year: 2014
45 min. High Definition, 16:9, Stereo
Produced by Interspot Film for ORF
SO LONG FU LONG!
Follow the journey of Fu Long, Austria’s beloved panda, as he leaves Vienna for his new home in China.
His departure has been hyped in the Austrian media for days,
Fu Long, the 2-year-old panda who has won the hearts of Austrians, is leaving for China. Heinz Leger and his team followed the baby panda from the first moments of his young life to his departure from Vienna airport. The first panda to be conceived naturally in Europe, Fu Long must return to China under a contract signed with the zoo in 1984. Fu Long's parents were sent to Vienna in 2003 as part of a loan programme that requires all offspring to return to China in their second year of life.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Year of production: 2009
43 min. XD-CAM, 16:9 Stereo, Produced by Interspot Film for: ORF
FU LONG
A young panda’s first steps in Vienna, from playful moments to his journey as a symbol of hope and friendship.
Austria was abuzz with excitement when, for the first time in the history of European zoos, a baby panda was born naturally and in good health.
Heinz Leger and his team followed the baby panda through the first moments of its young life. See Fu Long's awkward attempts to walk, his romps in the neighbouring garden and his cuddles with his mother Yang Yang. This documentary not only offers sensational exclusive footage of the newborn panda cub in his birthing box, his mother's care and the little panda's visits to the vet to ensure his healthy development, but also attempts to uncover the secret life of one of the world's most endangered species. Fu Long is growing up fast and getting cuter and more adorable by the day. Watch the film and become part of the 'panda mania' that has quickly crossed the borders of Austria and spread throughout Europe.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Production year: 2007/2008
50 min. XD-CAM, 16:9 Stereo, Produced by Interspot Film for: ORF
PANDABABY!
The enchanting story of a panda cub’s earliest days, from its first breath to its first steps in the world.
It is pink, almost hairless, blind and tiny, but a real sensation. In the early hours of Thursday 23 August, a baby panda was born at Vienna's Schönbrunn Zoo. The whimpering baby, no more than 10 centimetres long, is the first naturally conceived giant panda offspring in Europe. The documentary shows the first pictures of the newborn and tells how its relatives are being raised in China.
Written and directed by Heinz Leger
Production year: 2007
43 min. digi-beta, 16:9 stereo, produced by Interspot for: ORF
