Rise of the Raven wins Best Costume Design at the Septimius Awards 2025 - Bea Merkovits (Accepted by Balázs Lengyel)

On 4 September 2025, the global film industry turned its attention to the historic Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam for the prestigious Septimius Awards. Amidst a night that celebrated the pinnacle of international independent cinema and television, one of the evening’s most significant triumphs belonged to Bea Merkovits, who was honored with the award for Best Costume Design for her exceptional work on the epic series "Rise of the Raven." While Merkovits was the creative force behind the winning aesthetic, the trophy was accepted on her behalf by the series show runner and creator, Balázs Lengyel, marking a poignant moment of recognition for the high-scale production.

A Masterpiece of Historical Detail

The win for "Rise of the Raven" serves as a testament to the immense craftsmanship required to bring a 15th-century historical epic to life. The series, which chronicles the legendary life of János Hunyadi and his defense of Europe against the Ottoman Empire, relies heavily on its visual authenticity to immerse viewers in its period setting. Merkovits’ work on the series has been widely praised for its meticulous attention to historical accuracy, blending the rugged functionality of medieval armor with the intricate, opulent fabrics of royal courts.

The Septimius Awards, known for their focus on diversity and global storytelling, provided the perfect platform for this achievement. In a category that featured strong competition from high-budget international series such as "Shaka iLembe" and "Sisi," the victory for "Rise of the Raven" highlights the rising profile of Central European productions on the world stage. The costumes do more than just dress the actors; they act as a narrative tool, conveying the shifting political alliances and the sheer scale of the conflict that defined the era.

The Ceremony at the Tuschinski Theater

The venue for the ceremony, the Tuschinski Theater, added an extra layer of grandeur to the proceedings. Often cited as one of the most beautiful cinemas in the world, the Amsterdam landmark’s Art Deco and Art Nouveau interiors mirrored the artistic excellence being celebrated on stage. The event was attended by a diverse array of industry luminaries, including Academy Award and BAFTA winners, making the Best Costume Design win a significant milestone for the production team.

As the winner was announced, Balázs Lengyel stepped onto the stage to represent the costume department. His presence as the recipient emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. As the director, Lengyel worked closely with Merkovits to ensure that the visual language of the clothing complemented the cinematic tone of the series. By accepting the award on her behalf, he acknowledged the vital role that costume design plays in the success of any historical drama, particularly one as ambitious as "Rise of the Raven."

Impact on Global Television

The Septimius Awards are unique in their selection process, often pitting major studio productions against visionary independent works from across the globe. By securing the win for Best Costume Design, Merkovits and the "Rise of the Raven" team have solidified the series' reputation as a leader in technical and artistic execution. This recognition in Amsterdam is expected to boost the show’s international visibility, potentially opening doors for wider distribution and further accolades in the upcoming awards season.

The triumph also speaks to the growing trend of high-concept historical series finding success by leaning into authentic cultural details rather than generic period tropes. The research and labor that went into every hand-stitched garment and period-accurate textile used in the series were clearly recognized by the Septimius jury as a defining element of the show’s quality.

With this win, "Rise of the Raven" continues to demonstrate that its production values are on par with the world's most acclaimed television dramas. As Bea Merkovits’ designs continue to captivate audiences, the victory at the Septimius Awards 2025 remains a highlight of her career and a proud moment for the entire creative team involved in this sweeping historical saga.