Emotional drama: Lili Marleen today on Arte at 8:15 p.m.!
On May 19, 2025, Arte will show the film "Lili Marleen" by Rainer Werner Fassbinder - a moving drama about love in World War II.

Emotional drama: Lili Marleen today on Arte at 8:15 p.m.!
On May 19, 2025, Arte will show the feature film “Lili Marleen” by Rainer Werner Fassbinder at 8:15 p.m. The film, based on the story of a tragic love affair during the National Socialist era, can also be seen in the live stream and can then be accessed as video on demand in the Arte media library. “Lili Marleen” is a drama that explores the complex themes of love, identity and the influence of political circumstances on personal relationships.
The focus of the plot is the relationship between the German singer Willie Bunterberg, played by Hanna Schygulla, and the Jewish composer Robert Mendelsohn, played by Giancarlo Giannini. The story takes place in Zurich in 1938, as the rise of National Socialism progresses inexorably. Robert's family is against the relationship with Willie, but the two stay in touch despite resistance. During World War II, Willie becomes a star thanks to the song “Lili Marleen,” while Robert is arrested and Willie tries everything to help him.
Important details about the film
The film's cast is remarkable and includes many well-known actors. In addition to Schygulla and Giannini, Mel Ferrer as David Mendelsohn, Karl-Heinz von Hassel as Hans Henkel and Christine Kaufmann as Miriam can also be seen. Hark Bohm, Udo Kier and many more play other roles.
Availability and broadcast
The film is not being repeated, so tonight's broadcast is the only opportunity to see "Lili Marleen" on television. However, after broadcast, the film will be available in the Arte library, allowing viewers to access it at any time. Arte thus offers a platform for an important piece of film history that is both artistically and historically significant.
For more information about the film and to use the live stream, those interested can visit the website Spielfilm.de visit. In addition, it offers ARD media library further details about the show and its background. The evening promises to be a highlight for film lovers and those interested in contemporary historical topics.