Thomas Arslan

Actor

Director

Thomas Arslan is a German film director known for his work in independent cinema. With his precise and empathetic directing, he has established himself primarily as an important representative of the Berlin School, a movement in German cinema known for its realistic and restrained narrative style. He has received widespread critical acclaim for his films such as DEALER (1999), IN THE SHADOW (2010) and “Gold” (2013). Arslan is known for his minimalist narrative style and exploration of complex characters. His works are characterized by long shots, reduced dialogues and a strong focus on everyday realities. He succeeds in creating a haunting depth even in the most inconspicuous of moments. In IN THE SHADOW, he brought a breath of fresh air to the genre with his interpretation of a cool, distant gangster film, proving his versatility as a director. Even though he has not won any major awards, his films have been regularly shown at international film festivals. In particular, the Berlinale, the Toronto International Film Festival and the Locarno Festival have repeatedly provided a stage for Arslan's films. Critics appreciate his works for their nuanced narratives and visual aesthetics, which are often supported by precise image design and sparing but effective music selection. Thomas Arslan remains an influential filmmaker who continues to make his mark on German and international independent cinema with his consistent style and unpretentious narrative approach.