An exclusive first look at the trailer for Rose has been released, showcasing what critics are already hailing as another mesmerizing turn by acclaimed German actress Sandra Hüller. The film, directed by Markus Schleinzer, features Hüller in a demanding role as a woman navigating the treacherous aftermath of the Thirty Years’ War, disguised as a male soldier to survive in a Protestant village. This performance is rapidly generating significant awards buzz, solidifying Hüller’s position as one of the most compelling talents in contemporary cinema.
Crafting a 17th-Century Survivor
The collaboration between Hüller and Schleinzer on Rose was marked by an intensive and deeply collaborative process focused on authenticity. Early discussions between the star and director delved into the intricacies of portraying a 17th-century woman living as a man. Hüller, known for her rigorous approach, initially considered anachronistic preparation routines, such as strength training, before discarding them in favor of methods that would enhance historical believability. Her commitment to the role extended to detailed considerations, including modulating her voice to appear more masculine.
Schleinzer recounted an amusing anecdote from their preparation: “She was wondering, ‘What should I do with my voice — should I lower it?’” he recalled. “Then we started to laugh because then we found out that my voice, as a man, is higher than her voice as a woman. It would be a weird thing for her, to lower her voice to pretend to be a man, for a male director who has a much higher voice than hers.” This playful dynamic, while offering a lighthearted glimpse into their working relationship, underscores Hüller’s dedication to avoiding easy or obvious choices in her portrayal. Her nuanced performance in Rose has been lauded as a masterclass in subtle, profound character embodiment.
A Career Defined by Nuance and Intensity
Sandra Hüller’s career has been characterized by a series of critically lauded performances, earning her international recognition for her intensity and versatility. While Rose is positioned as a significant highlight, it arrives amidst an extraordinary period for the actress. Her recent roles in Justine Triet’s Anatomy of a Fall, which garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, and Jonathan Glazer’s The Zone of Interest, a powerful Holocaust drama, have placed her firmly in the global cinematic spotlight. These performances have showcased her remarkable ability to inhabit complex characters with both vulnerability and formidable strength, often exploring themes of morality, survival, and societal pressure.
Schleinzer, an Austrian filmmaker and former casting director who honed his craft under the tutelage of the legendary Michael Haneke, revealed his fascination with Hüller long before Rose began production. He confessed to "stalking" her work, watching her entire filmography, including early television appearances, after conceiving the idea for Rose. Their eventual meeting on the set of the 2023 German black comedy Sisi & I, where they were co-stars, provided Schleinzer with an opportunity to observe Hüller’s acting process firsthand. He described his own performance in Sisi & I as "really bad" because he was so engrossed in studying Hüller. This deep admiration culminated in Schleinzer sending her the Rose script, presented in a prose style more akin to a novel, a challenge Hüller eagerly accepted.
The Genesis of Rose and its Historical Echoes
The initial spark for Rose ignited on Schleinzer’s birthday, when a friend recounted the story of a woman executed 250 years prior for living her life as a man. This historical anecdote resonated deeply with the filmmaker, driving him to research hundreds of similar cases spanning centuries. Schleinzer, who identifies as queer, recognized a profound connection between these historical narratives and the contemporary anxieties experienced by marginalized communities. He views the film not merely as a historical drama but as a poignant commentary on present-day struggles for identity and acceptance. "Every life, every day is a political act – so we cannot hide," Schleinzer stated, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to foster a more equitable society. This underlying philosophical current imbues Rose with a relevance that transcends its 17th-century setting, prompting viewers to consider the enduring nature of prejudice and the courage required to live authentically.
The Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), a devastating conflict primarily fought in Central Europe, provides a grim backdrop for Rose. This period of immense religious and political upheaval left vast swathes of land ravaged, populations decimated by warfare, famine, and disease, and societal structures shattered. In such a chaotic and dangerous environment, the act of a woman adopting a male identity would have been a desperate measure for survival, offering greater mobility, protection, and autonomy than was typically afforded to women. The film delves into the psychological toll of such a disguise, depicting a survivor in constant, subtle hiding, where every interaction is fraught with potential exposure and peril.
Critical Acclaim and Festival Circuit Momentum
Rose premiered to significant critical acclaim at the Berlin Film Festival in February, where Sandra Hüller was honored with the Silver Bear for Best Lead Performance, marking an early testament to the film’s impact and her compelling portrayal. The film continued its successful festival run, making its North American debut at the Telluride Film Festival, where Hüller received a Tribute Medallion, further cementing her status as a leading figure in international cinema. More recently, Rose garnered additional praise at the New York Film Festival.
Chief film critic David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter lauded Hüller’s work in his review, writing, "Rose is another extraordinary showcase for her gifts and a master class in the art of acting with rigor, honesty, physicality and zero showiness." This sentiment reflects a broad consensus among critics regarding Hüller’s exceptional performance, which avoids overt theatricality in favor of a deeply internal and authentic characterization. The awards recognition and critical raves position Rose as a strong contender in the upcoming awards season, particularly for Hüller’s performance.
A Visionary Production: From Black and White to Enduring Themes
The film’s aesthetic choices are as deliberate as its thematic explorations. Shot on location near the East German border, Rose boasts a unique "handmade quality" that permeates every frame. Director Markus Schleinzer personally scouted the original sets through hours of hiking, contributing to the film’s immersive sense of place. Gerald Kerkletz’s striking black-and-white cinematography enhances the historical period, lending the visuals a timeless, almost archival quality while simultaneously sharpening the emotional impact of the narrative. The meticulous makeup and costume work further contribute to the film’s authenticity, ensuring that the visual elements are deeply integrated with the story and character development.
Despite the period setting and the profound tragedy that underpins the narrative, Rose also incorporates a dry humor, allowing for moments where the absurdity of certain situations can breathe. This delicate balance prevents the film from becoming a mere "museum piece," as Schleinzer intended. His goal was to create a work that speaks to contemporary anxieties and struggles, rather than simply offering nostalgic images of the past. The film’s exploration of identity, marginalization, and the political nature of existence resonates strongly in a world grappling with similar issues.
Sandra Hüller’s Unconventional Approach to Acting
Schleinzer offered further insight into Hüller’s distinctive acting process, referencing a viral red-carpet clip where the star famously downplayed her craft, stating, "I really have to disappoint you, it’s not so much: I learned the lines." Schleinzer confirmed that while Hüller’s explanation might seem simple, the resulting performance is anything but. He contrasted her approach with that of other actors he encountered during his 17 years as a casting director. "There is this type of actor who loves to talk, because talking means that they do not have to act, they can just talk, talk, talk, talk," he explained. "Sandra is the complete opposite. She is someone who gets easily bored, so no take is the same."
This aversion to repetition and her innate curiosity drive Hüller to continuously explore new facets of her character. Schleinzer recounted her on-set directives to herself: "‘Now I’ll become a little more boyish,’ ‘Now I’m the soldier.’" This dynamic, ever-evolving approach presented a unique challenge for the director in terms of character construction for the audience, but it also resulted in "such life come alive in front of your eyes on the set every day." Her ability to bring spontaneous, nuanced variations to each take highlights her profound connection to her roles and her commitment to raw, unvarnished performance.
An Oscar Contender in a Crowded Field
Rose is slated for North American theatrical release by Mubi on December 11. The production timeline itself speaks to Hüller’s incredible work ethic; shooting commenced less than two weeks after the conclusion of her intense awards campaign for Anatomy of a Fall, which ultimately earned her an Oscar nomination. The film was then shot in small increments over several months, a testament to the dedication required for such a demanding role.
While Rose is undeniably a strong contender for awards recognition, particularly for Hüller’s performance, she faces a unique challenge: her own formidable talent. Beyond Rose, Hüller also delivers a powerful lead performance in the Cannes-winner The Zone of Interest, also distributed by Mubi. Additionally, she holds key supporting roles in upcoming projects such as Project Hail Mary and Digger. This prolific output, all showcasing her extraordinary range, means that Hüller could be her own greatest competition in a potential Oscar race.
Within the expansive landscape of Hüller’s filmography, and indeed, within the broader spectrum of contemporary acting, Rose stands out as a truly special project. Director Markus Schleinzer, expressing his fervent belief in Hüller’s artistry, stated with a grin, "Sandra said I should not threaten people, but I have watched her career for the last 20 years and I’ve seen so many prizes taken away from her. If she’s not going to be nominated for this one, I’m going berserk." This declaration underscores the profound impact Hüller’s performance in Rose has had on those closest to its creation, signaling its potential to resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike.
The official poster for Rose has also been released, further building anticipation for the film’s North American debut.
