Women as Lovers (2026)

Women as Lovers (Original Title: Liebhaberinnen) is a 2026 drama, romance, and family film directed by Caroline Kox. The screenplay was co-written by the director alongside Antonio de Luca and Elfriede Jelinek, adapting Jelinek's successful early novel. Produced in Germany and Luxembourg, the film explores the complex emotional landscapes of its characters through the lens of contemporary relationships.

The narrative centers on Brigitte, portrayed by Johanna Wokalek, who navigates a series of demanding professional and personal situations. From sleeping bags left outside fitness studio lockers to high-pressure coaching seminars and morning shift briefings where employees must practice their "salesperson smile," Brigitte's life reflects the harsh realities faced by many working women. As a debut filmmaker, Caroline Kox brings a fresh perspective to this adaptation, capturing the nuanced struggles of her protagonist with depth and authenticity.

The cast features strong performances from established German cinema figures. Alongside Johanna Wokalek, the ensemble includes Hannah Schygulla, Ben Nooshah, Victoria Trauttmansdorff, and Susanne Bredehöft. The film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival on February 15, 2026, running for 98 minutes in the German language.

• Directed by debut filmmaker Caroline Kox, marking her first feature-length work.
• Based on an early novel by Nobel Prize laureate Elfriede Jelinek.
• Featured prominent actors including Johanna Wokalek and Hannah Schygulla.
• Co-produced by Germany and Luxembourg, highlighting cross-border European collaboration.
• Selected for the prestigious lineup at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival.