Woman Driving, Man Sleeping Poster

Woman Driving, Man Sleeping 2004

★ 3.73 votes122 min📅 2004-11-18

In *Woman Driving, Man Sleeping* (2004), director Rudolf Thome crafts a poignant drama that explores the fragility beneath the surface of an ordinary family.

Director: Rudolf Thome

Cast

Hannelore Elsner
Hannelore Elsner
Dr. Sue Süssmilch
Karl Kranzkowski
Karl Kranzkowski
Prof. Anton Bogenbauer
Hanns Zischler
Hanns Zischler
Sven Hedin
Serpil Turhan
Serpil Turhan
Markus Perschmann

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Woman Driving, Man Sleeping (2004) about?

The film follows dentist Sue and philosophy professor Anton, a seemingly stable couple juggling careers and raising four children. When their 18-year-old son Thomas has a mental health breakdown, their carefully balanced life is thrown into chaos as they confront the emotional fallout together.

Who directed Woman Driving, Man Sleeping?

Rudolf Thome directed *Woman Driving, Man Sleeping*. Known for his insightful and introspective storytelling, Thome explores human relationships with a keen, understated lens.

Who stars in Woman Driving, Man Sleeping?

The film stars Hannelore Elsner as Sue, Karl Kranzkowski as Anton, with Hanns Zischler, Serpil Turhan, and Markus Perschmann rounding out the key cast.

Is Woman Driving, Man Sleeping (2004) worth watching?

While it remains unrated on IMDb, *Woman Driving, Man Sleeping* is a compelling drama that resonates with anyone who's ever faced the unpredictability of life. Its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and mental health struggles makes it a thoughtful choice for fans of character-driven cinema.

How long is Woman Driving, Man Sleeping?

The film runs for 122 minutes, offering a deep dive into its characters' lives without unnecessary padding.

About Woman Driving, Man Sleeping (2004) — A Family Drama Unraveled by Crisis

In *Woman Driving, Man Sleeping* (2004), director Rudolf Thome crafts a poignant drama that explores the fragility beneath the surface of an ordinary family. Dentist Sue and philosophy professor Anton appear to have it all—steady careers, four children, and a home that runs smoothly. But when their 18-year-old son Thomas experiences a sudden breakdown, the carefully constructed façade begins to crumble. The film dives deep into the emotional toll of mental health struggles, capturing the quiet desperation and unspoken tensions that ripple through their household. With a contemplative tone and understated realism, Thome invites viewers into a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the hidden fractures in seemingly perfect lives.

Hannelore Elsner and Karl Kranzkowski deliver compelling performances as the parents grappling with their son's crisis, while Hanns Zischler and Serpil Turhan add depth to the family dynamic. The film's focus on personal crisis and familial bonds makes it a standout in the drama genre, offering a raw and relatable portrayal of life's unexpected challenges.