The Reign of Sandra Hüller: From Suhl to the Global Stage

BERLIN, 21 February 2026 — As the 76th Berlin International Film Festival draws to a close this weekend, one name has dominated the headlines and the hearts of the Berlinale audience: Sandra Hüller. The German actress, who achieved unprecedented international acclaim over the last two years, has once again proven her status as a titan of contemporary cinema with her latest performance in the historical drama Rose.

A Triumphant Return at Berlinale 2026

Just six days ago, on 15 February 2026, Hüller premiered her latest project, Rose, directed by Austrian auteur Markus Schleinzer. Set against the brutal backdrop of 17th-century Germany during the Thirty Years’ War, the film features Hüller in a transformative role as a woman passing as a man. Critics have described her performance as “towering” and “searing,” with the film serving as a profound study of gender roles and survival in a pseudo-folktale setting.

The premiere saw Hüller returning to the spotlight in Berlin, wearing Chanel and receiving sustained applause from the festival crowd. This latest success follows a period of intense global visibility that began with her dual triumphs at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

The Path to International Stardom

Born on 30 April 1978 in Suhl, East Germany, Hüller’s journey to the Oscars was paved with decades of rigorous theatre and film work. She studied acting at the Ernst Busch Academy of Dramatic Arts in Berlin from 1996 to 2000. Rather than seeking immediate fame, she dedicated the early years of her career to the stage, taking engagements in various cities and establishing herself as a versatile and fearless performer.

The Breakthrough Years

While Hüller has been a respected figure in European cinema for years—winning accolades for films like Requiem and Toni Erdmann—2023 and 2024 marked her definitive arrival as a global household name. She starred in two of the most awarded films of that period:

• Anatomy of a Fall: A gripping French courtroom drama where she played a writer accused of her husband’s murder. This role earned her a César Award and her second European Film Award for Best Actress.
• The Zone of Interest: A chilling Holocaust drama directed by Jonathan Glazer, in which she portrayed Hedwig Höss.

Career Highlights and Accolades

Hüller’s ability to navigate complex, often “hard to warm to” characters has made her a favourite among directors and critics alike. Below is a summary of her career milestones and major awards.

Future Projects: From the 17th Century to Outer Space

Hüller shows no signs of slowing down. Following the critical success of Rose, fans are looking forward to her upcoming English-language projects. Amazon MGM recently released the final trailer for Project Hail Mary, a highly anticipated space movie in which Hüller plays a pivotal role. Additionally, reports from earlier this week suggest she may appear in the upcoming The Naked Gun reboot alongside Liam Neeson, showcasing her range from high-concept drama to mainstream comedy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where was Sandra Hüller born?

Sandra Hüller was born in Suhl, a town in East Germany, on 30 April 1978.

What awards has Sandra Hüller won?

She has won numerous prestigious awards, including two European Film Awards, a César Award, three German Film Awards, and the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. She was also nominated for an Academy Award for her role in Anatomy of a Fall.

What is her latest movie?

Her latest film is Rose, directed by Markus Schleinzer, which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in February 2026. She is also set to appear in the upcoming sci-fi film Project Hail Mary.

Where did she study acting?

She studied at the Ernst Busch Academy of Dramatic Arts in Berlin between 1996 and 2000.