Initially you might think the TV series 'House of Cards' and 'Follow the Money' are unlikely bedfellows. One's a Netflix blockbuster whose return the whole world is anxiously waiting for later this month, the other's an unscreened DR show of unproven quality.

But not according to Dieter Kosslick, the president of the Berlin International Film Festival. Like he did with the first season of 'House of Cards' two years ago, he has handpicked 'Follow the Money' to screen in the Berlinale Special Section.

The festival reserves a section for previewing "new and extraordinary productions"  chosen by Kosslick. “We perceive our choosing as a great honour," the series producer Anders Toft Andersen told Berlingske.

Strengthening DR's brand
Following in the footsteps of 'Forbrydelsen' and 'Borgen', 'Follow the Money' is expected to strengthen DR's brand as an outstanding TV-series producing company.

Written by Jeppe Gjervig Gram, the co-author of 'Borgen', the show brings Thomas Bo Larsen ('Jagten') and Nikolaj Lie Kaas ('Kvinden i buret') back to the small screen. It also raises expectations among a public that has been become accustomed to solid productions from DR.

Financial crisis series
"The series is inspired by the financial crisis, but instead of pointing to Wall Street as the villains, our series examines how everyone in society was seduced by greed," Andersen explained.

Its inclusion in the special section is expected to bring with it a lot of bids for the international broadcast rights.