The Marriage of Maria Braun (1979)

In the tumultuous twilight of World War II, a young German woman, Maria, finds her life intertwined with the horrors and aftermath of the conflict. She hastily weds her soldier husband, Hermann, in the final throes of the war, their union lasting a fleeting afternoon and night before he's summoned to the battlefield. With the ashes of the war settling, Maria's existence becomes a poignant portrait of resilience and survival, her days spent haunting the railway station, her gaze forever searching for Hermann amidst the faces of returning soldiers. Her reality is harsh, a testament to the gritty life in post-war Germany, her survival becoming a relentless battle against adversity. Yet, she finds a semblance of solace in the company of an American sergeant, whose generosity ensures her and her family's basic needs in these desperate times. However, when the news of Hermann's death reaches her, she staunchly refuses to accept it, her loyalty to her husband unwavering and steadfast. Maria's life becomes a poignant testament to patience and hope, her days marked by the anticipation of Hermann's return. The years stretch on, but her loyalty never wavers. Fate, however, has a cruel sense of humor, and when they finally reunite, it takes an unexpected turn. "The Marriage of Maria Braun" paints a raw, immersive picture of a war-torn Germany and the turmoil of those caught in its destructive wake, all seen through the eyes of a woman whose love outlives a war.

The Marriage of Maria Braun is a drama movie featuring Hanna Schygulla.

The Marriage of Maria Braun is currently streaming on Criterion Channel and Max Amazon Channel.