Born in Hamburg, Germany, he initially studied painting and graphic arts before transitioning to film. After working in television, he gained international acclaim with "Das Experiment" (2001), a psychological thriller. His most notable work, "Downfall" (2004), depicted Hitler's last days, earning an Academy Award nomination. Known for intense, character-driven narratives, he later directed films like "The Invasion" (2007) and "Five Minutes of Heaven" (2009), continuing to explore complex human themes.