West Germany

In "LILI MARLEEN", famed German director Rainer Werner Fassbinder tells the story of this song and the two lovers amidst the chaos of World War II. In Zurich, 1938, talented musician Robert Mendelsson (GIANCARLO GIANNINI) falls in love with a young German singer, Willie (HANNA SCHYBULLA [sic]). Robert's wealthy father, David (MEL FERRER), who works for a Jewish relief organisation, conspires to break up their clandestine affair. Willie becomes a successful cabaret singer and attracts the attention of a high-ranking Nazi officer, Herr Hinkel (KARL HEINZ von HASSEL), who introduces her to Berlin society. Her new song, Lili Marleen, delights influential Berlin audiences and Henkel is responsible for her making a record. The song captivates troops all over the world. Now a German celebrity, Hitler provides Willie with a plush apartment. As the record grows in popularity, Willie assumes the name of Lili Marleen. She meets Robert again on a secret mission in Germany, but the Gestapo are watching and arrest him. As the Third Reich crumbles, Robert is released at the Swiss border and resumes his musical career. But Willie and Robert cannot relive the past...