A distinguished German actress, she gained recognition for her work with director Rainer Werner Fassbinder in the early 1980s, starring in films like "Lola" and "Berlin Alexanderplatz." Her portrayal of historical figures, such as Rosa Luxemburg in the film of the same name, earned her critical acclaim and awards, including the Cannes Best Actress Award. She also collaborated with director Margarethe von Trotta on multiple projects. Her career spans both European cinema and Hollywood, including roles in "M. Butterfly" and "Hannah Arendt."