Rosa von Praunheim 1942 – 2025

Biography

Rosa von Praunheim was a pioneering German film director whose career spanned decades of cinema history. Born on November 25, 1942, in Riga, she brought her distinctive vision to the screen throughout her professional life, contributing significantly to German filmmaking. Her work reflected the artistic currents of her time and helped shape the landscape of cinema in her adopted country.

Based in Berlin for much of her career, von Praunheim developed her craft in one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural centers. As a director, she worked across various genres and styles, establishing herself as a respected voice in the film industry. Her contributions to cinema were recognized throughout her life as she continued to create and innovate.

Von Praunheim passed away on December 17, 2025, in Berlin, the city that had been central to her artistic journey. She was laid to rest at Alter St.-Matthäus-Kirchhof Berlin in the Tempelhof-Schöneberg district, a final resting place befitting her status as an important figure in German cultural life. Her legacy endures through the body of work she left behind and her influence on generations of filmmakers.