Klaus Maria Brandauer

Klaus Maria Brandauer's professional journey began as a music student, subsequently transitioning to studying drama at the prestigious Stuttgarter Hochschule. His passion for the stage was evident, and he rarely ventured into film work, except for two minor roles in The Salzburg Connection (1972) and Októberi vasárnap (1979). However, this mindset changed dramatically when Hungarian director István Szabó entrusted him with a leading role in Mephisto (1981). Brandauer's outstanding performance at the Cannes film festival earned him the coveted actor's award, subsequently paving the way for international recognition in the film industry. This breakthrough was solidified by his collaborations with Szabó on Colonel Redl (1985) and Hanussen (1988),collectively known as the 'German trilogy.' Brandauer's impressive portrayal of Bror Blixen in Out of Africa (1985) garnered him a Golden Globe and Academy Award nomination. Furthermore, he made his directorial debut with Georg Elser - Einer aus Deutschland (1989),in which he also played the leading role.