Rosa von Praunheim 1942 – 2025

Biography

Rosa von Praunheim was a visionary German film director whose decades-long career left an indelible mark on European cinema. Born in Riga in 1942, she built her artistic legacy in Berlin, one of the continent’s most creatively charged cities. Working across multiple genres and styles, von Praunheim established herself as a respected innovator whose distinctive directorial voice helped reshape the landscape of postwar German filmmaking.

Based in Berlin throughout much of her professional life, she became a driving force in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, creating work that reflected and influenced the artistic currents of her era. Von Praunheim’s contributions to cinema earned her recognition as a significant voice in the industry, and she continued developing her craft and pushing creative boundaries well into her career.

Von Praunheim passed away in Berlin on December 17, 2025, at 82. She was laid to rest at Alter St.-Matthäus-Kirchhof Berlin, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to resonate with filmmakers and audiences alike. Her influence on generations of directors remains a testament to her enduring impact on German cinema.