Bruno S. was an American actor best known for his roles in Stroszek, The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser, and numerous documentaries. Born as Bruno Schleinstein on June 2, 1932, in Berlin, Germany, he faced a challenging childhood that influenced much of his later work.
Personal and Family Life
Bruno S. endured a troubled upbringing, having been severely abused by his mother at a young age, which resulted in him becoming temporarily deaf. He spent 23 years in various mental institutions and often had run-ins with the law. Despite these hardships, he developed his talents as a self-taught painter and musician.
Career Highlights
Bruno’s life changed when director Werner Herzog discovered him in a documentary. Herzog cast him in major films like The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser and Stroszek. Bruno was known for being difficult to work with, frequently requiring extensive preparation before filming each scene. His unique talents brought a raw and authentic quality to his performances.
Death and Legacy
Bruno S. passed away on August 11, 2010, in Berlin, Germany, due to heart failure. His legacy continues as an influential figure in outsider art and German cinema. Herzog once referred to him as the “unknown soldier of German cinema,” highlighting his significant but often overlooked contributions.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Stroszek | 1977-01-12 | Bruno Stroszek |
| Jeder für sich und Gott gegen alle | 1974-11-01 | Kaspar Hauser |
| Was ich bin, sind meine Filme | 1979-04-18 | Stroszek |
| Bruno der Schwarze – Es blies ein Jäger wohl in sein Horn | 1971-06-28 | |
| Avé | 2012-03-09 | Viktor’s Grandfather |
| Bruno S. – Die Fremde ist der Tod | 2003-02-07 | Self |
| Bruno S, With Devotion | 2013-01-10 | Self |
| Phantomanie | 2010-01-01 | Bruno S. |
| Seeing Things | 2009-01-01 | Self |
| Vergangen, vergessen, vorüber | 1994-04-22 | Self |
| Midi Première | 1975-01-06 | Self |