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Sandra Hüller could be heading back into the Academy Awards conversation with her upcoming historical drama Rose. Set in 17th-century Germany in the devastating aftermath of the Thirty Years’ War, the film has already earned significant recognition, including a Silver Bear for Hüller at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Directed by Markus Schleinzer, Rose follows a mysterious soldier who arrives in an isolated Protestant village. Scarred and reserved, the stranger claims to be the rightful heir to an abandoned farmstead and presents a document to support the claim. Although the suspicious villagers initially question the newcomer, the soldier gradually earns their trust by presenting himself as a hardworking and devout member of the community.
The truth, however, is far more complicated.
Hüller plays Rose, a woman who disguises herself as a man in order to gain the freedom and social status denied to women during the period. The film explores her increasingly dangerous attempt to build a new life while keeping her identity hidden from those around her.
The trailer introduces Rose as an enigmatic figure who is viewed by the villagers as both a soldier and an outsider. As she attempts to assimilate into the community, Rose reflects on the harsh reality of her previous life, explaining that she had never been able to imagine a future because survival had consumed each day.
Rose’s deception becomes even more complicated when she enters an arranged marriage with Suzanna, described as an “unblemished, God-fearing” woman. The two initially manage to live together while Rose keeps her identity secret. However, Suzanna eventually discovers the truth, setting the stage for a series of devastating consequences.
The 94-minute drama is directed and co-written by Schleinzer, whose previous films include Neverland and Veni Vidi Vici. Alexander Brom also receives a writing credit. Hüller is joined in the cast by Marisa Growaldt, Robert Gwisdek, and Godehard Giese. Johannes Schubert, Philipp Worm, Tobias Walker, and Karsten Stöter serve as producers.
Rose premiered at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, where Hüller received the Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance. The recognition adds to an increasingly decorated career for the German actress, who has received widespread acclaim for films including Anatomy of a Fall. She was also honored with a Silver Medallion at the 53rd Telluride Film Festival.
With its historical setting, complex central character, and Hüller leading the cast, Rose is already attracting attention ahead of its theatrical release. Her Berlin victory could further strengthen the film’s awards-season profile as it heads toward the end of the year.
Rose is scheduled to arrive in theaters on December 11, 2026.
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