Detlev Buck
Personal details
  • Born:
    • Birthday: 1962-12-01
    • Born Place: Bad Segeberg, Germany

Detlev Buck

Born on December 1, 1962, in Bad Segeberg, Germany, Detlev Buck is a powerhouse of contemporary German cinema, celebrated as a "quadruple threat" for his extensive work as a director, actor, producer, and screenwriter. Raised on a farm in Nienwohld, his rural upbringing often influences his distinctive storytelling style, which frequently blends dry, North German humor with sharp social observation. Buck rose to prominence in the early 1990s with his feature debut Karniggels (1991) and the smash-hit comedy Männerpension (Jailbirds, 1996), which cemented his reputation for revitalizing the German comedy genre. Throughout his career, he has proven his versatility by shifting from lighthearted family fare, such as the wildly successful Bibi & Tina franchise, to gritty, award-winning dramas like Knallhart (Tough Enough, 2006). As an actor, he is known for his deadpan delivery and memorable character roles, including a notable performance in Michael Haneke's Oscar-nominated The White Ribbon (2009). In the 2025–2026 season, Buck has continued to be a central figure in high-profile German productions. He plays a key supporting role as Sam Gangsters, a headstrong local fisherman, in Fatih Akin’s historical drama Amrum (2025), which premiered to critical acclaim at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. His character serves as a vital island figure who interacts with the young protagonist, Nanning, during the final days of World War II. In addition to his acting, Buck remains active behind the camera; following the 2024 release of his film Everything Fifty Fifty, he has been developing new projects for 2026 that continue his tradition of exploring the complexities of German identity through a satirical lens. Over his four-decade career, Buck has received numerous honors, including several German Film Awards, the Bavarian Film Award, and a Bambi, solidifying his status as one of the most influential and beloved creators in European film.

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