Football history is littered with legends, but few cast a shadow as long and significant as Franz Beckenbauer. Known globally as 'Der Kaiser,' the German icon redefined the role of the libero and achieved unparalleled success both as a player and a manager. For fans in the UK looking to delve deep into his complex legacy, a highly-praised documentary is set to air on free-to-air television tonight.
The Definitive Look at 'Der Kaiser'
Tonight, ARTE is broadcasting the three-part documentary series, "Beckenbauer - Der letzte Kaiser" (Beckenbauer - The Last Emperor). This broadcast comes just over a week after the second anniversary of Beckenbauer's passing on January 7th, providing a timely reflection on a towering figure in the sport.
While the airwaves have been saturated with content about the Munich-born legend—who passed away on September 11, 1945—this particular production is being highlighted as perhaps the most comprehensive look yet. The sheer volume of media covering Beckenbauer means that audiences could be forgiven for suffering from 'Beckenbauer fatigue.' However, director Torsten Körner’s approach manages to cut through the noise, drawing its strength from unparalleled access and depth.
Why This Documentary Stands Out
Torsten Körner is uniquely positioned to tell this story. Over two decades ago, Körner penned the well-received biography, "Der freie Mann" (The Free Man). This intensive research required countless meetings with Beckenbauer himself, as well as his closest colleagues and friends. This established relationship forms the backbone of the current documentary, produced by Leopold Hoesch.
The film doesn't shy away from the duality of Beckenbauer’s life—the revered genius on the pitch versus the flawed, complex man off it. Viewers will hear from numerous prominent figures reflecting on the man who reigned over German football. The broadcast on ARTE will feature all three episodes consecutively, running until 22:50.
A Career of Unmatched Success
Franz Beckenbauer’s career trajectory is the stuff of legend. From his early days at Bayern Munich, where his revolutionary playing style began to take shape, to leading West Germany to World Cup glory in 1974 as captain, and then again in 1990 as manager, his impact is indelible. His move abroad in 1977 to the New York Cosmos, which was reportedly accompanied by some friction upon his departure from Munich, is another key chapter explored in depth.
The documentary successfully navigates the narrative arc of a man who was first deified and later faced significant scrutiny. It captures the essence of his reign—a period where he was both an icon and a subject of intense public interest.
Context of Recent Beckenbauer Media
The appetite for Beckenbauer content remains high. Just last year, the successful RTL series "Gute Freunde", based on Thomas Huetlin’s brilliant book of the same name, offered a compelling narrative. Furthermore, Sky’s 2022 biopic, "Der Kaiser", though perhaps criticised for being overly polished, provided a detailed visual overview.
Yet, Körner’s work, which first debuted on MagentaTV, seems to offer a more nuanced, insider perspective. It moves beyond simple retelling, leveraging Körner’s long history with the subject to elicit candid recollections from those who knew him best. This is not just another recap of goals and trophies; it is an examination of the man behind the myth.
Why UK Football Fans Should Tune In
While the primary focus is German football history, Beckenbauer’s influence stretched across Europe and globally, particularly through his time spent in the US and his managerial roles. For any serious football enthusiast, understanding the impact of figures like Beckenbauer is crucial to appreciating the evolution of the modern game.
Tonight’s broadcast on ARTE offers a significant opportunity to watch what many critics are calling the most insightful documentary on the man often considered the greatest German footballer ever. It’s a chance to revisit the genius, the controversy, and the lasting legacy of 'Der Kaiser' as told by those closest to him.
(Note: While the original source indicated broadcast details, viewers in the UK should confirm local scheduling for ARTE content or streaming availability.)