Ulrich Seidl

Ulrich Seidl is an Austrian film director, screenwriter, and producer. He is considered one of the most distinctive voices in European cinema today.

Born in Vienna in 1952, Seidl began his filmmaking career in the early 1980s, writing and directing short films and documentaries. His work often focused on the lives of the marginalized and working classes, particularly in his native Austria. Seidl’s early films were quite controversial, especially his notorious 1985 documentary “Import/Export” which depicted the harsh realities of life in the slums of Vienna and the country’s economic and social disparities.

In 1997, Seidl directed his first feature-length film, “The Silence”, which was critically acclaimed and earned him the FIPRESCI award at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival. This was followed by the highly acclaimed “Dog Days” (2001) and the controversial “Paradise: Love” (2012).

Throughout his career, Seidl has explored themes of identity, masculinity, femininity, and religion in his films. His unique style of long takes and observational documentary-style techniques has earned him critical praise and a cult following. His films often focus on complex social issues, such as prostitution, immigration, and poverty.

Seidl has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Golden Leopard award at the Locarno International Film Festival for “Import/Export”, the Grand Prix des Ameriques for “The Silence”, and the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin International Film Festival for “Paradise: Love”.

In addition to his filmmaking career, Seidl has also directed several operas and theatre productions, and has taught courses on filmmaking at universities in Austria and Germany. He continues to push boundaries with his unique and provocative style, while exploring complex social issues in his films.

Ulrich Seidl is one of the most influential filmmakers of our time, and his work continues to challenge and provoke audiences around the world.