Joseph Vilsmaier (pronounced [ˈjoːzɛf ˈfɪlsmaɪ.ɐ] ⓘ, 24 January 1939 – 11 February 2020)[1] was a German film director who began his career as a technician and cameraman.
He then trained as a technician to make film cameras, and studied piano at the Musikhochschule München.
After working as a technician, he moved into film, first as a material and camera assistant, then from 1961 as a cameraman.
[2] His debut film as director, Herbstmilch in 1988, starring his wife, Dana Vávrová, was a huge success.
[2] Subsequently, his ability to work was limited, and his wife took over directing the film.