A cast has been revealed for the upcoming Scorpions biopic Wind of Change. Among the actors set to appear in the film are Dominic West (The Crown), Alexander Dreymon (The Last Kingdom), and Ludwig Trepte (Generation War), among others.
West will play the German band’s legendary manager Doc McGhee (also known for working with KISS, Mötley Crüe, and Bon Jovi), while Trepte will portray singer Klaus Meine and Dreymon will play guitarist Rudolf Schenker. Ed Speleers (You), and Luke Brandon Field (Interview with the Vampire, Jojo Rabbit) will play guitarist Matthias Jab and drummer Herman Rarebell, respectively.
The film is currently in production in London, with plans for a theatrical release before the end of the year. It’s being directed by Alex Ranarivelo (Running Wild, Born a Champion), and produced by ESX Entertainment for FOX Entertainment Studios in association with Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.
“It’s been an unbelievable journey developing this film and bringing it to life feels surreal” stated Ali Afshar, founder and president of ESX Entertainment. “Not only did the Scorpions’ music help me get through tremendous difficulties as an Iranian immigrant in America in the early 80’s, but their message of love, peace and rock ‘n’ roll seems more relevant today than ever.”
He added, “This cast is an amazing ensemble of truly great talent. I can’t thank FOX Entertainment and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment enough for their support and especially the band — Rudolf, Klaus and Matthias — for believing in us and trusting us to tell their life story.”
An official synopsis reads, “It tells the story of a band united by their passion for music, who sought to inspire change in the world through their powerful sound and meaningful lyrics. At the heart of the film is their iconic anthem ‘Wind of Change,’ which became the soundtrack to the end of the Cold War, symbolizing hope, peace and unity. Through their music, with hits ranging from ‘Rock You Like a Hurricane’ to ‘Still Loving You,’ the Scorpions helped bridge the divide between East and West, leaving an indelible mark on history and proving the transformative power of art.”
Scorpions recently announced a greatest-hits compilation titled From the First Sting in celebration of the band’s 60th anniversary. The band is also set to perform a five-night Las Vegas residency in August at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, with tickets available here.