Wolfgang Petersen
DirectingAbout Wolfgang Petersen
Wolfgang Petersen was a German-born screenwriter, producer and film director who spent most of his career in the United States. In the 1960s he began working directing plays at the Ernst Deutsch Theater in Hamburg. After becoming interested in theater in Berlin and Hamburg, Petersen attended the Berlin Film and Television Academy (1966-70). His first productions were for German state television, and it was during his work on the popular crime series Crime Scene that he met actor Jürgen Prochnow, who would later appear in his iconic film Das Boot (1981). His other films include The NeverEnding Story (1984), cult film Enemy Mine (1985), Shattered (1991), In the Line of Fire (1993), Outbreak (1995), Air Force One (1997), The Perfect Storm (2000), Troy (2004), Poseidon (2006) and Four Against the Bank (2016), his latest film.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Wolfgang Petersen reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 10 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Wolfgang Petersen's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 30% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Wolfgang Petersen remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Der Bernd, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Wolfgang Petersen Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Wolfgang Petersen's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Wolfgang Petersen.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | U-96, The True Story of 'Das Boot' | Self (archive footage) | Average | Similar → |
| 2021 | Das Boot Revisited: An Underwater Success Story | Self - Das Boot Screenwriter and Director | Hit | Similar → |
| 2013 | Stardust Hollywood - Sternenstaub und Götterwelten | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2012 | Der Bernd | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2011 | Wolfgang Petersen: Back to the Boat | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2005 | Gottschalk meets Petersen | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
| 2002 | Starbuck Holger Meins | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1996 | Hollywood, Germany - Die amerikanische Herausforderung | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1984 | The NeverEnding Story | Man Who Drops Milk (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1981 | Das Boot: Behind The Scenes | Self | Flop | Similar → |
Wolfgang Petersen - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Wolfgang Petersen?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Wolfgang Petersen is "Der Bernd" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Wolfgang Petersen acted in?
Wolfgang Petersen has been featured in at least 10 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Wolfgang Petersen?
Other notable films include "Das Boot Revisited: An Underwater Success Story", "The NeverEnding Story", and "U-96, The True Story of 'Das Boot'".