Renowned German actress Sandra Hüller has emerged as the undeniable star of 2023, captivating audiences with her stellar performances in two critically acclaimed films, “Anatomy of a Fall” and “The Zone of Interest,” both winners at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Hüller’s remarkable versatility and powerful portrayals have garnered comparisons to legendary actresses Ingrid Bergman and Isabelle Huppert.
In 2016, Hüller gained international acclaim for her role in “Toni Erdmann,” which earned an Academy Award nomination. However, this year, she has truly taken center stage with her roles in two standout films. In “Anatomy of a Fall,” she plays Sandra Voyter, a novelist and mother accused of murder, while in “The Zone of Interest,” a Cannes Grand Prix winner, she embodies the character of Hedwig Höss, wife of Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss.
The 45-year-old actress, in an interview with Euronews Culture, discussed the challenges and nuances of her performances in these films. In “Anatomy of a Fall,” directed by Justine Triet, Hüller navigates the ambiguity of her character’s innocence or guilt, emphasizing the film’s exploration of truth-finding. The movie delves into societal judgments faced by women, bisexuality, and success, presenting a subtle yet impactful feminist perspective.
Reflecting on her role in “The Zone of Interest,” directed by Jonathan Glazer, Hüller revealed initial reservations about portraying a fascist character but commended Glazer’s honest approach. The film, which uses the Holocaust as a backdrop, aims to provoke viewers to consider the thin line between complicity and ignorance in the face of atrocities.
Throughout the interview, Hüller expressed her commitment to roles that carry political weight, emphasizing the importance of films that take risks and make meaningful statements, particularly in the current socio-political climate. She also touched on the unique shooting process of “The Zone of Interest,” where hidden cameras created a psychological impact on the cast, enhancing the authenticity of their performances.
As Hüller continues to garner awards buzz for her outstanding performances, including Best Actress wins at the Gotham Awards and the European Film Awards, as well as a Golden Globe nomination, speculation arises about the possibility of an Oscar nomination for her roles in two non-English language films. However, Hüller remains humble and uncertain about the unpredictable nature of awards recognition.
Addressing the recent actors’ strikes in Hollywood, Hüller expressed doubt about a similar scenario unfolding in Europe, attributing it to the distinct film culture and the close connection between European actors and their roles. She also touched on the potential influence of artificial intelligence in the film industry, highlighting the current lack of reliance on AI in European filmmaking.
Concluding the interview, Hüller reflected on her diverse filmography and her openness to exploring different genres. She emphasized that her choices are guided by a gut feeling, political considerations, and a desire to be part of unique and impactful stories.
In summary, Sandra Hüller’s remarkable performances in “Anatomy of a Fall” and “The Zone of Interest” have solidified her status as the standout European star of 2023, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent and commitment to roles that carry political and societal significance.
