The film's sets were designed by the art director Robert Herlth and Walter Röhrig.

Location filming took place around the Berlin area including at the Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam.

In 1756, a masked ball is being celebrated in the Dresden Palais of the Saxon Minister Heinrich von Brühl.

The event serves as cover for confidential talks being held with the envoys of Austria, Russia and France with the aim of conspiring against the Prussian King Frederick II.

When the envoys of Austria, Russia and France ask for an audience with Friedrich, he gives a flute concerto to gain time.