The Elementary Particles (2006): cast, story & where to watch

2006 · Film · ★ 6.3

The Elementary Particles poster

Released in 2006, The Elementary Particles is a drama and romance film directed by Oskar Roehler, running about 105 minutes.

What it’s about. Based on Michel Houellebecq's controversial novel, Atomised (aka The Elementary Particles) focuses on Michael and Bruno, two very different half-brothers and their disturbed sexuality. After a chaotic childhood with a hippie mother only caring for her affairs, Michael, a molecular biologist, is more interested in genes than women, while Bruno is obsessed with his sexual desires, but mostly finds his satisfaction with prostitutes. But Bruno's life changes when he gets to know the experienced Christiane. In the meantime, Michael meets Annabelle, the love of his youth, again.

Who’s in it. The Elementary Particles stars Christian Ulmen as Michael Djerzinski, Moritz Bleibtreu as Bruno Klement, Martina Gedeck as Christiane and Franka Potente as Annabelle, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.3/10, The Elementary Particles has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Elementary Particles page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Elementary Particles tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch The Elementary Particles (2006)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Elementary Particles change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is The Elementary Particles worth watching?
The Elementary Particles holds an audience score of 6.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and romance. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in The Elementary Particles?
The Elementary Particles stars Christian Ulmen, Moritz Bleibtreu, Martina Gedeck, Franka Potente and Nina Hoss.
When was The Elementary Particles released?
The Elementary Particles was released in 2006, with a runtime of about 105 minutes.