A German multi-talented artist, known for his work in film, particularly in the New German Cinema movement, and his collaborations with director Rainer Werner Fassbinder.
Kurt Raab is best remembered for his extensive work with German film director Rainer Werner Fassbinder, collaborating on 31 film projects that left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. As a stage and film actor, screenwriter, and playwright, Raab's versatility and talent were instrumental in shaping Fassbinder's distinctive style.
Raab was born on 20 July 1941 in Bergreichenstein, which is now Kapersk Hory, Czech Republic. He completed his abitur at Musische Gymnasium Straubing and studied in Munich. His cinematic debut came in 1969 with Fassbinder's Love Is Colder than Death, marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would span over a decade.
Raab's collaboration with Fassbinder yielded some of the most iconic films of the era, including Why Does Herr R. Run Amok (1970), The American Soldier (1970), Beware of a Holy Whore (1971), and The Merchant of Four Seasons (1972). Raab's roles varied from actor to production designer, assistant director, producer, and screenwriter, demonstrating his remarkable range and dedication to the craft.
Raab was known for his close friendship with Freddie Mercury of Queen, appearing in the band's music video for "It's a Hard Life" as a ballerina. He also made a memorable appearance in Mercury's "Living on My Own" video, dressed in drag as Mary, Queen of Scots. Raab's personal life was marked by his openness about his struggle with AIDS, using his platform to raise awareness about the disease in West Germany.
Before his untimely passing on 28 June 1988 at the age of 46, Raab worked tirelessly to combat the stigma surrounding AIDS. His documentary Mitten im Leben (1988) and posthumously released film Sehnsucht Nach Sodom (1989) tackled taboo subjects such as AIDS, death, and Catholicism in the context of gay identity. Raab's courage and determination to educate the public about the disease paved the way for greater understanding and acceptance.
Raab's remarkable body of work and courageous advocacy have inspired generations of filmmakers and artists. His legacy continues to inspire new waves of creators, and his contributions to the world of cinema remain unparalleled.
These films and many more attest to Raab's boundless talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft, cementing his place as one of the most important figures in German cinema.
81 Years Old
A prolific filmmaker who explored themes of social inequality, identity, and human relationships through his provocative and emotionally charged movies, leaving an indelible mark on New German Cinema.
83 Years Old
A visionary filmmaker who explores the human condition through provocative, visually stunning, and often unconventional documentaries and feature films. Known for his intense, poetic, and philosophical storytelling style.
87 Years Old
German New Wave pioneer behind films like "The Tin Drum" and "Death of a Salesman", known for adapting literary classics into cinematic masterpieces.
81 Years Old
A renowned filmmaker acclaimed for his poignant and visually stunning works that often explore the human condition, particularly in the context of identity, culture, and social change.
93 Years Old
A pioneering filmmaker known for experimental, avant-garde works that challenge traditional narrative structures and explore the relationship between sound and image. His films often focus on the human condition, politics, and social issues.
84 Years Old
A pioneering female filmmaker who has made significant contributions to German New Wave cinema, known for her thought-provoking and emotionally charged films that explore the human condition.
