In the new film from the director of 'She Said' and 'I'm Your Man,' Hüller will play German writer and artist Wolfgang Herrndorf in the autobiographical drama about facing death.
In the upcoming film Arbeit und Struktur (Work and Structure), acclaimed actress Sandra Hüller will portray Wolfgang Herrndorf, a significant figure in German literature. Directed by Maria Schrader, the film is based on Herrndorf's posthumously published memoir detailing his life following a terminal brain tumor diagnosis in 2010. The project was officially announced on September 3, 2026, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
This collaboration aims to provide a nuanced, emotional exploration of the themes of life and death, showcasing how Herrndorf’s writing reflects his confrontations with mortality. Sandra Hüller’s commitment to character depth promises a compelling portrayal that captures the complexities of Herrndorf at a pivotal moment in his life. As he faces his impending death, the film seeks to illuminate his triumphs and struggles through artistic expression.
Arbeit und Struktur draws from Herrndorf's memoir, which became a literary sensation in Germany after its release in 2013. The narrative weaves an insightful blend of humor and poignancy, capturing Herrndorf’s experiences with hope, despair, and the struggle against mortality. Hüller aims to embody the complexities of Herrndorf's character at a transitional moment in his life, as he grapples with his terminal illness and the pursuit of artistic expression. Her previous performances, particularly in Markus Schleinzer's Rose, garnered critical acclaim, making this role another intriguing chapter in her career.
Hüller reflected on her connection to Herrndorf's work, stating, "Ever since my first encounter with Wolfgang Herrndorf's work, I have been unable to let go of his writing. His texts are at once surprising, unsettling, and comforting." This sentiment underscores the emotional depth she seeks to portray in the film. Schrader, who is co-adapting the script with Jan Schomburg, describes the memoir as “a solitary and intimate record of what it means to be alive,” highlighting the ambition to convey universal emotional truths through the lens of Herrndorf's experiences.
Produced by Komplizen Film alongside France's Haut et Court, Studiocanal, and German public broadcaster ZDF, Arbeit und Struktur is set to begin principal photography in early 2027. Studiocanal is expected to handle worldwide sales and oversee the film's release in Germany, France, and Italy in 2028. This collaborative effort brings together industry leaders aiming to portray Herrndorf's poignant life and the challenges inherent in exploring such profound themes through cinema.
As Arbeit und Struktur moves toward production, audiences can expect a sensitively rendered portrayal of a writer confronting mortality. The film promises to deliver significant insights into the human experience, drawing from Herrndorf’s impactful narrative. Fans of Hüller, as well as adaptations of notable literary works, can look forward to a compelling cinematic experience that honors the source material and delivers a poignant exploration of life and death.
What this means is that Arbeit und Struktur not only seeks to engage audiences but also to provoke thought about existential themes, illustrating the profound impact of confronting mortality through art.
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