20 Best Wim Wenders Films: A Road Trip Through Existence

Wim Wenders is a German filmmaker who has made an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With a career spanning over five decades, Wenders has directed over 40 films, many of which are considered modern classics.

His work is known for its emotional depth, visual poetry, and philosophical musings on the human condition.

Best Wim Wenders Films

These films covers Wenders’ impressive body of work, which includes many other masterpieces that explore the human experience with depth, sensitivity, and artistry.

1. Alice in the Cities (1974)

“Alice in the Cities” is a 1974 film directed by Wim Wenders. It tells the story of a German journalist named Philip Winter, who is struggling to find inspiration for his writing.

While on assignment in America, he meets a young girl named Alice who has been abandoned by her mother.

Philip finds himself reluctantly taking on the responsibility of looking after Alice, and the two of them embark on a journey across the United States.

The film is a poignant coming-of-age story that explores themes of loneliness, identity, and human connection.

The relationship between Philip and Alice is complex and nuanced, as they slowly learn to rely on each other and form a bond despite their initial reluctance.

The film also features beautiful cinematography that captures the vast and varied landscapes of America, as well as a haunting soundtrack that enhances the mood of the film.

“Alice in the Cities” is widely regarded as one of Wenders’ best films, and is considered a classic of the New German Cinema movement.

It is a thoughtful and poignant meditation on the human experience, and a touching tribute to the power of human connection.

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2. Paris, Texas (1984)

“Paris, Texas” is a 1984 film directed by Wim Wenders, and is widely regarded as one of his masterpieces.

The film tells the story of Travis Henderson, a man who has been wandering in the desert for four years and is found and brought back to civilization by his brother, Walt.

Travis, who is mute and uncommunicative, gradually begins to reconnect with his past and his family, and embarks on a journey to reunite with his estranged wife and son.

The film is a powerful meditation on love, loss, and the search for identity. It features stunning cinematography by Robby Müller, which captures the vast and striking landscapes of the American West, and a haunting score by Ry Cooder.

The film’s central performances by Harry Dean Stanton as Travis, Nastassja Kinski as his wife Jane, and Hunter Carson as his son Hunter, are all powerful and moving.

“Paris, Texas” won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the 1984 Cannes Film Festival, and is considered one of the greatest American films of the 1980s.

It is a haunting and unforgettable portrait of a man struggling to reconnect with his past, his family, and himself, and is widely regarded as one of Wenders’ greatest achievements.

3. Until the End of the World (1991)

“Until the End of the World” is a 1991 film directed by Wim Wenders.

The film is a sci-fi road movie that takes place in the near future, and follows the journey of Claire, a woman on the run from the law, and Sam, a man who is trying to capture the last images of his blind mother.

The two of them travel across the world in search of a mysterious device that can record and play back people’s dreams.

The film is an epic and ambitious work that spans several continents and features a large and international cast.

It explores themes of love, loss, and the power of human imagination, as well as the ways in which technology can both connect and isolate people.

The film’s stunning cinematography captures the beauty and diversity of the world’s cultures and landscapes, while its haunting score by Graeme Revell and U2 adds to the film’s dreamlike quality.

“Until the End of the World” was a critical and commercial disappointment upon its release, but has since gained a cult following for its inventive storytelling and unique blend of genres.

It is a film that challenges the viewer’s perceptions of what a sci-fi movie can be, and is a testament to Wenders’ bold and visionary filmmaking.

4. Lisbon Story (1994)

“Lisbon Story” is a 1994 film directed by Wim Wenders. The film follows a sound engineer named Phillip Winter, who travels to Lisbon to record the sounds of the city.

While there, he reunites with his old friend, a filmmaker named Friedrich Monroe, who is in Lisbon to shoot a film. The two of them embark on a journey to explore the city and capture its unique sounds and images.

The film is a meditative exploration of the creative process, as well as an ode to the beauty and complexity of Lisbon.

It features stunning cinematography by Robby Müller, which captures the city’s winding streets, ancient buildings, and bustling nightlife, as well as a beautiful score by Madredeus that perfectly captures the film’s mood.

“Lisbon Story” is a testament to Wenders’ ability to create deeply moving and personal films that transcend borders and languages.

It is a film that celebrates the power of art and the human spirit, and is widely regarded as one of his most personal and evocative works.

5. Faraway, So Close! (1993)

“Faraway, So Close!” is a 1993 film directed by Wim Wenders. The film is a sequel to his earlier film “Wings of Desire,” and continues the story of two angels, Damiel and Cassiel, who watch over the city of Berlin.

Damiel has now become human and is living in the city with his lover, Marion, and their daughter, while Cassiel remains an angel and watches over the city from above.

The film is a poetic meditation on the nature of humanity and the struggle to find meaning in life. It features a stunning cast, including Otto Sander and Bruno Ganz, who reprise their roles as Damiel and Cassiel, and Nastassja Kinski and Willem Dafoe in supporting roles.

The film’s cinematography by Jürgen Jürges is breathtaking, capturing the beauty and grittiness of Berlin, while its haunting score by Laurent Petitgand adds to the film’s ethereal and dreamlike quality.

“Faraway, So Close!” is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that explores the themes of love, loss, and redemption.

It is a testament to Wenders’ ability to create works that are both intellectually challenging and emotionally resonant, and is widely regarded as one of his greatest achievements.

6. Wings of Desire (1987)

“Wings of Desire” is a 1987 film directed by Wim Wenders. The film tells the story of two angels, Damiel and Cassiel, who wander through the streets of Berlin, watching over the city’s inhabitants and listening to their thoughts.

Damiel becomes fascinated with a trapeze artist named Marion, and decides to give up his immortality to become human and experience life on earth.

The film is a poetic and visually stunning meditation on the nature of human existence, the beauty of the world, and the struggles of love and loss.

It features a hauntingly beautiful score by Jürgen Knieper and features stunning black-and-white cinematography by Henri Alekan that perfectly captures the film’s dreamlike quality.

The film’s cast includes Bruno Ganz and Otto Sander as the two angels, as well as Solveig Dommartin as Marion.

“Wings of Desire” is widely regarded as one of Wenders’ masterpieces and has had a profound influence on filmmakers around the world.

It is a film that challenges the viewer to look at the world in a different way, and to see the beauty and magic in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

7. Kings of the Road (1976)

“Kings of the Road” is a German road movie directed by Wim Wenders and released in 1976. The film follows the journey of two men who travel through the German countryside in a repair truck, fixing cinema projectors in small towns and villages.

The two men are Bruno, a middle-aged man who is going through a difficult time in his personal life, and Robert, a younger man who is also struggling with personal issues.

As they travel together, they form an unlikely friendship and engage in philosophical discussions about life and the nature of existence.

The film is shot in black and white and features long, contemplative scenes that capture the desolate beauty of the German landscape.

The cinematography and use of natural sound help to create a sense of meditative stillness, which is punctuated by moments of humor and reflection.

“Kings of the Road” is widely considered to be one of Wim Wenders’ best films, and it is often cited as a classic of the German New Wave cinema movement.

The film was praised for its portrayal of male friendship and its exploration of themes related to identity, loneliness, and the search for meaning in life.

8. Ten Minutes Older: The Trumpet (2002)

“Ten Minutes Older: The Trumpet” is a collection of short films by various directors, released in 2002 as part of a larger project called “Ten Minutes Older.” The project was aimed at exploring the experience of time and its impact on human life.

In “Ten Minutes Older: The Trumpet,” each director was asked to create a short film that was exactly ten minutes long and explored the theme of time.

The directors involved in this project include Jim Jarmusch, Werner Herzog, and Aki Kaurismäki, among others.

The film features a range of styles and themes, from Werner Herzog’s exploration of the mystical nature of time, to Jim Jarmusch’s poetic meditation on the passage of time, to Spike Lee’s reflection on the impact of historical events on individual lives.

The title of the film refers to the idea that the trumpet is a symbol of time, with its sound marking the passing of minutes and hours.

The film’s exploration of time and its effects on human life is a central theme that runs throughout each of the short films.

“Ten Minutes Older: The Trumpet” is an experimental film that challenges the conventions of traditional narrative cinema.

It offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time, and its impact on our lives.

9. The Million Dollar Hotel (2000)

“The Million Dollar Hotel” is a 2000 drama film directed by Wim Wenders and written by Bono, Nicholas Klein, and Richard Ray Perez.

The film follows the lives of the residents of a seedy Los Angeles hotel called the Million Dollar Hotel, whose lives are intertwined after a resident named Izzy Goldkiss (played by Tim Roth) falls off the roof of the hotel and dies under mysterious circumstances.

The investigation of his death leads to the uncovering of secrets and relationships among the hotel’s other inhabitants, including Tom-Tom (played by Jeremy Davies) and Eloise (played by Milla Jovovich).

The film features an ensemble cast that includes actors such as Mel Gibson, Jimmy Smits, and Peter Stormare, among others.

The soundtrack for the film was produced by Bono and features music from a variety of artists, including U2, Daniel Lanois, and Brian Eno.

The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its unconventional storytelling and performances, while others criticized its slow pace and disjointed narrative.

Despite its mixed critical reception, the film has developed a cult following over the years and is noted for its atmospheric depiction of Los Angeles and its unique blend of drama, romance, and mystery.

10. The State of Things (1982)

“The State of Things” is a film directed by Wim Wenders and released in 1982. It tells the story of a film crew that is stranded in Portugal while waiting for their director to arrive with the script for their next film.

The crew includes a director, a cinematographer, an actor, and a production assistant, all of whom are struggling with personal and professional problems.

As they wait for the director, they begin to work on their own projects and reflect on the state of their lives and the world around them.

The film crew’s experiences are juxtaposed with flashbacks to the making of a previous film, which was a commercial failure and left the director in financial ruin.

“The State of Things” is often seen as a self-reflexive work, as it deals with themes that are central to Wenders’ own filmmaking process, such as the difficulties of financing and creating a film.

The film also explores the role of cinema in modern society and questions the impact of commercialism on art.

The film’s use of black and white photography and its slow pacing contribute to its contemplative tone. It was praised for its cinematography and its exploration of themes related to identity, art, and the struggles of independent filmmaking.

11. Palermo Shooting (2008)

“Palermo Shooting” is a German-French-Italian drama film directed by Wim Wenders, released in 2008.

The film stars German actor Campino as Finn, a successful photographer who, after a crisis in his personal and professional life, decides to travel to Palermo, Italy, to escape from his problems and find some inspiration.

In Palermo, Finn meets a mysterious woman named Flavia (Giovanna Mezzogiorno), who takes him on a journey through the city and helps him confront his inner demons.

Finn also has encounters with other characters, including a young woman named Cecilia (Maren Eggert) and a man named Salvatore (Dennis Hopper), who claims to be the devil.

The film explores themes of art, mortality, and the search for meaning in life. It features stunning cinematography of Palermo’s historic landmarks and a haunting musical score by the band Tangerine Dream.

While the film received mixed reviews, some critics praised Wenders’ direction and Campino’s performance, and it was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival.

12. Pina (2011)

“Pina” is a 2011 documentary film directed by Wim Wenders, which explores the life and work of the late German choreographer Pina Bausch.

The film is shot in 3D and features excerpts from some of Bausch’s most famous dance productions, as well as interviews with her collaborators and members of her dance company, Tanztheater Wuppertal.

The film was originally conceived as a collaboration between Wenders and Bausch, but Bausch died suddenly in 2009, just two days before filming was scheduled to begin. In the wake of her death, Wenders decided to transform the film into a tribute to Bausch and her work.

“Pina” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many critics hailing it as a groundbreaking and visually stunning documentary.

The film was also nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

The film captures Bausch’s groundbreaking choreography and the impact it had on the dancers who worked with her.

Through interviews and performance footage, viewers get a glimpse into Bausch’s creative process and the legacy she left behind.

The film is a testament to the power of dance as an art form and the profound impact it can have on those who create and perform it.

13. Buena Vista Social Club (1999)

“Buena Vista Social Club” is a 1999 documentary film directed by Wim Wenders, which documents the recording of an album by the same name, featuring traditional Cuban music from the 1940s and 1950s.

The film highlights the talents of several legendary Cuban musicians who had been largely forgotten outside of their own country.

The film features interviews and performances with members of the Buena Vista Social Club, a group of Cuban musicians who were invited to record an album in Havana in 1996 by guitarist and producer Ry Cooder.

The musicians included Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, Rubén González, Eliades Ochoa, and Omara Portuondo, among others.

The film provides a glimpse into the cultural and musical heritage of Cuba, and showcases the vitality and richness of Cuban music.

The performances are both joyful and soulful, and the musicians’ personalities and stories shine through in their music.

The film was a critical and commercial success, and helped to introduce Cuban music to a wider audience around the world.

It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2000 and won a number of other awards, including the César Award for Best Foreign Film.

14. Wrong Move (1975)

“Wrong Move” is a 1975 German film directed by Wim Wenders, and is part of his “Road Movie Trilogy”, which also includes “Alice in the Cities” and “Kings of the Road”.

The film stars Rüdiger Vogler as Wilhelm, a young writer who is struggling to find his voice and his place in the world.

The film follows Wilhelm as he embarks on a journey across Germany, hoping to find inspiration for his writing and escape from his mundane life.

Along the way, he meets a diverse group of people, including a young girl named Mignon (Nastassja Kinski in her film debut), a professional actor (Hanns Zischler), and a philosopher (Peter Kern). Each encounter shapes his journey and helps him to better understand himself.

Through Wilhelm’s journey, the film explores themes of identity, the search for meaning, and the desire for creative expression.

Wenders’ use of long, contemplative shots and introspective voiceovers creates a meditative mood, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys through life.

“Wrong Move” was well received by critics and helped establish Wenders’ reputation as one of Germany’s most important contemporary filmmakers. It is widely regarded as a classic of the road movie genre.

15. The Soul of a Man (2003)

“The Soul of a Man” is a 2003 documentary film directed by Wim Wenders that explores the lives and music of three influential blues musicians: Blind Willie Johnson, Skip James, and J.B. Lenoir.

The film was produced as part of Martin Scorsese’s series of films about the blues, entitled “The Blues,” and it features performances by contemporary musicians such as Lou Reed, Nick Cave, and Bonnie Raitt, who perform covers of the blues musicians featured in the film.

The documentary interweaves archival footage, interviews, and reenactments to tell the stories of these three musicians and the impact their music had on the development of the blues genre.

The film also examines the social and cultural context in which these musicians worked and the ways in which their music reflected the struggles of African Americans in the United States.

“The Soul of a Man” received critical acclaim upon its release, with many critics praising Wenders’ direction and the film’s mix of historical footage and modern performances.

The film also won several awards, including the UNESCO Award at the Venice Film Festival and the Grand Jury Prize at the Newport International Film Festival.

Overall, “The Soul of a Man” is a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of these three blues musicians and the impact their music had on the development of American music.

The film is an exploration of the human experience, through the lens of the blues, and a celebration of the power of music to connect people across time and cultural divides.

16. The American Friend (1977)

“The American Friend” is a 1977 psychological thriller film directed by Wim Wenders, based on the novel “Ripley’s Game” by Patricia Highsmith.

The film tells the story of a terminally ill picture framer named Jonathan Zimmermann, played by Bruno Ganz, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous underworld of art forgery and contract killing.

The film features a cast of international actors, including Dennis Hopper, who plays Tom Ripley, a charismatic but ruthless American art dealer who recruits Zimmermann into a criminal scheme.

The film is set in Hamburg and Paris and features stunning cinematography and a haunting score by German composer Jürgen Knieper.

“The American Friend” is renowned for its stylish direction and its exploration of the dark and twisted world of the criminal underworld.

The film delves deep into the psyche of its characters, exploring their fears, desires, and moral ambiguities.

It is also noted for its use of genre conventions to subvert audience expectations, resulting in a complex and intriguing film that challenges the viewer’s understanding of what constitutes a crime thriller.

The film was well-received by critics and has since become a cult classic, with many considering it to be one of the best films of Wim Wenders’ career.

It has been praised for its innovative direction, intelligent script, and outstanding performances from its cast. “The American Friend” is a gripping and unforgettable film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

17. Land of Plenty (2004)

“Land of Plenty” is a 2004 drama film directed by Wim Wenders. The film stars Michelle Williams as Lana, a young woman who returns to the United States after living in Palestine to care for her grandfather, a Vietnam War veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). John Diehl co-stars as her grandfather, Paul.

The film is set in post-9/11 Los Angeles and explores themes of paranoia, isolation, and the search for meaning in a troubled world.

Lana and Paul both struggle with the aftermath of their experiences, as they confront the contradictions of contemporary America and try to make sense of their place in the world.

As the film progresses, Lana becomes involved in a search for a missing Arab-American man and, in the process, confronts her own prejudices and assumptions.

The film offers a critique of American culture, while also showing the potential for human connection and compassion.

“Land of Plenty” was generally well received by critics, who praised Wenders’ direction and Williams’ performance.

The film’s exploration of American culture and the aftermath of 9/11 resonated with audiences at the time of its release, and the film remains relevant today.

18. Beyond the Clouds (1995)

“Beyond the Clouds” is a 1995 film directed by Michelangelo Antonioni and Wim Wenders. The film is a collection of four vignettes that are loosely connected by the theme of love and desire.

The film stars a number of international actors, including John Malkovich, Sophie Marceau, and Fanny Ardant.

The first three vignettes are directed by Antonioni and explore themes of youth, solitude, and communication.

The fourth vignette, directed by Wenders, is a tribute to Antonioni and features him in a small role. The film is notable for its stunning cinematography, with each segment showcasing different landscapes and urban environments.

“Beyond the Clouds” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics hailing it as a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film, while others criticized its slow pace and lack of narrative cohesion.

Despite its mixed reception, the film has developed a cult following over the years and is often cited as a notable example of the work of two influential directors.

Overall, “Beyond the Clouds” is a thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and the ways in which people communicate and connect with one another.

The film’s breathtaking visuals and evocative music create a dreamlike atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.

19. The Goalie’s Anxiety at the Penalty Kick (1972)

“The Goalie’s Anxiety at the Penalty Kick” is a 1972 film directed by Wim Wenders, based on the novel of the same name by Peter Handke.

The film follows the story of a goalkeeper named Joseph Bloch, played by Arthur Brauss, who is expelled from his football team after committing a violent act on the field.

The film explores Bloch’s subsequent descent into despair and alienation, as he tries to find a sense of purpose in his life.

The film is a masterful exploration of themes of identity, alienation, and existential crisis. Wenders employs a variety of techniques, including fragmented storytelling, dreamlike imagery, and a detached, observational tone, to create a sense of unease and dislocation in the viewer.

The film is shot in a stark, black and white style, with long, static shots that emphasize the emptiness and isolation of the characters.

“The Goalie’s Anxiety at the Penalty Kick” is a haunting and thought-provoking film that captures the mood of its time, and its influence can be seen in the work of subsequent filmmakers.

The film has been praised for its innovative style and its exploration of the human condition, and it remains a powerful example of Wim Wenders’ unique cinematic vision.

20. Tokyo-Ga (1985)

“Tokyo-Ga” is a 1985 documentary film directed by German filmmaker Wim Wenders. The film was inspired by Wenders’ admiration for the work of Japanese filmmaker Yasujirō Ozu, and the title refers to Ozu’s film “Tokyo Story”.

The film follows Wenders’ journey to Tokyo, where he seeks to understand the city that inspired Ozu’s films.

Along the way, he interviews people who worked with Ozu, including his cinematographer Yuharu Atsuta and actor Chishū Ryū, as well as filmmaker Werner Herzog, who shares Wenders’ admiration for Ozu’s work.

Wenders also explores contemporary Tokyo, capturing the bustling streets and the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Through his observations and interviews, he reflects on the importance of cinema and the role it plays in shaping our understanding of the world.

“Tokyo-Ga” is a meditative and introspective film that reflects on the power of cinema to connect cultures and transcend language barriers.

The film is considered an important contribution to the study of Japanese cinema, and it provides valuable insights into the work of one of its greatest masters

3 Characteristics of Wim Wenders Films

Wim Wenders is a German filmmaker known for his distinctive style and unique approach to storytelling. Here are three characteristics that are often found in his films:

Road trips and journeys: Wim Wenders often explores the concept of journey and self-discovery in his films.

He frequently uses road trips and travel as a way to explore the inner lives of his characters and the landscapes they inhabit. This is seen in films such as “Kings of the Road” and “Paris, Texas.”

Use of music: Wim Wenders is known for his innovative use of music in his films. He often collaborates with musicians and incorporates music into the narrative in creative ways.

For example, in “Buena Vista Social Club,” he explores the music of Cuba and its impact on the lives of the people who create and perform it.

Themes of alienation and displacement: Wim Wenders frequently explores themes of alienation and displacement in his films.

He often focuses on characters who are searching for meaning and struggling to find their place in the world.

This is seen in films such as “Wings of Desire” and “The End of Violence.” These themes are often explored through the use of urban landscapes and the contrast between the natural and built environments.

3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Wim Wenders Films

There are many reasons why one should watch films by Wim Wenders, but here are three of the most compelling:

Unique Visual Style: Wenders has a unique visual style that is characterized by his use of long takes, wide shots, and a meditative pacing that invites viewers to reflect on the human condition.

His films often feature striking visuals of urban landscapes and natural environments, and his use of music is both evocative and powerful.

Exploration of Universal Themes: Wenders’ films explore universal themes such as identity, loss, memory, and the search for meaning.

His films often depict characters who are struggling to find their place in the world, and his stories are infused with a deep sense of humanity and compassion.

Contributions to Film History: Wenders is one of the most important filmmakers of the post-war era, and his work has had a profound influence on the history of cinema.

His films have been praised for their innovative approach to storytelling and their use of non-linear narratives, and his impact can be seen in the work of many contemporary filmmakers.

Overall, Wim Wenders’ films offer a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience that is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating.

Best Wim Wenders Films – Wrapping Up

Wim Wenders has made many notable films throughout his career, each with its own unique style and themes. Here are a few of his most highly regarded works:

“Paris, Texas” (1984) – This film tells the story of a man who has been missing for four years and is reunited with his family.

It is a moving exploration of identity, memory, and family, and features stunning visuals and a memorable performance by Harry Dean Stanton.

“Wings of Desire” (1987) – This film tells the story of an angel who falls in love with a human woman and decides to become mortal. It is a visually stunning exploration of human connection and the power of love, and features performances by Bruno Ganz and Peter Falk.

“Buena Vista Social Club” (1999) – This documentary film follows a group of Cuban musicians who come together to record an album.

It is a celebration of the music and culture of Cuba, and features stunning performances by legendary musicians such as Compay Segundo and Ibrahim Ferrer.

“Kings of the Road” (1976) – This film tells the story of two men who travel through rural Germany in a repair truck.

It is a moving exploration of loneliness, male friendship, and the changing landscapes of post-war Germany.

“The American Friend” (1977) – This film is a neo-noir thriller based on a novel by Patricia Highsmith. It features a standout performance by Dennis Hopper and explores themes of identity, morality, and the Americanization of Europe.

Overall, Wim Wenders’ films are known for their beautiful cinematography, innovative use of music, and exploration of themes such as identity, displacement, and the human condition.