Full Breakdown
Netflix’s “Monsanto” Courtroom Drama Begins Production in Bavaria
4/28/2026, 12:57:01 AM
Core Production Details
John Lee Hancock is directing a new courtroom drama titled “Monsanto,” slated for an international co-production with Netflix. Principal photography will commence in Bavaria, Germany, with the majority of locations secured through the assistance of the FFF Film Commission. The film revisits the real-life legal battle against the chemical corporation Monsanto, focusing on allegations that its Roundup herbicide caused cancer. Jonathan Bailey has been cast as attorney Brent Wisner, the plaintiff’s lead counsel, while Laura Dern portrays Monsanto’s chief toxicologist who testifies that Roundup is safe. The role of Wisner was previously announced for Glen Powell, who has been replaced by Bailey.
Legal Context of the Story
The narrative centers on a lawsuit filed against Monsanto in the United States, claiming that exposure to Roundup’s active ingredient, glyphosate, resulted in cancer diagnoses. The courtroom drama dramatizes the litigation process, including expert testimony and corporate defense strategies, reflecting the broader public debate over the product’s safety.
Creative Team and Cast
- John Lee Hancock – Director and co-writer, known for his work on character-driven dramas.
- Jonathan Bailey – Actor portraying plaintiff attorney Brent Wisner.
- Laura Dern – Actress playing Monsanto’s chief toxicologist.
- Michael Wisner, Alexandra Duparc, Ned Benson – Co-writers of the screenplay alongside Hancock.
- John Schwartzman – Cinematographer attached to the project.
- Glen Powell – Initially announced for the lead attorney role before being replaced.
International Co-Production Structure
The German production side is led by KrautPack Entertainment, while the American partner is Onda Entertainment of Los Angeles. Executive producers Philip Schulz-Deyle and Moritz Borman oversee the Netflix-backed venture, ensuring coordination across the two production entities.
Funding and Regional Support
Bavaria’s regional film fund FFF Bayern has contributed €500,000 (approximately $589,000) to the project, marking a significant public investment in the series. The fund’s support includes financial backing and logistical assistance from the FFF Film Commission, which has facilitated location scouting throughout the region.
Anticipated Impact and Distribution
As a Netflix-distributed feature, “Monsanto” will be accessible to a global streaming audience, potentially amplifying public awareness of the underlying legal controversy. The collaboration between German and American production houses, combined with the involvement of high-profile talent, positions the film to attract both domestic and international viewership.
What’s Next
Production is scheduled to proceed through the coming months in Bavarian locales, after which post-production work will prepare the film for Netflix’s release platform. No specific premiere date has been announced.
