Paula Beer: Petzold’s Muse Shines in "The Third Movement of the Mirror"

German actress Paula Beer, now Christian Petzold’s go-to leading lady after succeeding Nina Hoss, continues to prove her talent in his latest work The Third Movement of the Mirror. The film premieres in the Directors’ Fortnight, adding to their acclaimed collaborations.

Beer first gained French recognition with François Ozon’s Frantz (2016). With Petzold, she delivered standout performances in Transit, Undine, and the Rohmer-esque Afire. In The Third Movement of the Mirror, she plays a depressed woman taken in by a mysterious 50-something after an accident, a role that promises raw emotional depth.

Petzold’s trust in Beer is well-placed—her ability to balance vulnerability and intensity makes her perfect for his layered narratives. As the film debuts, audiences await another compelling turn from this actress, who keeps redefining her craft with each project.