Der amerikanische Freund – German Poster (1977)

Film description

The American Friend (1977) is a thriller by Wim Wenders, based on Patricia Highsmith's novel Ripley's Game. The film tells the story of Jonathan Zimmermann (played by Bruno Ganz), who allows himself to be drawn into criminal activities by the shady American Tom Ripley (Dennis Hopper).

With cinematography by Robby Müller, a melancholic undertone, and international locations, Wenders combines the stylistic elements of film noir with existential reflections on friendship, betrayal, and mortality. Guest appearances by directing greats such as Nicholas Ray and Samuel Fuller underscore the cinematic homage.

The film is considered one of the most significant international successes of the New German Cinema and cemented Wenders' reputation as a world-class director.