Watching movies is an enjoyable and effective way to learn a new language, and German is no exception.
German-language movies offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the language and culture of German speakers.
In this article, we present a list of 12 German-language movies that can help you learn German while experiencing the richness of German cinema.
From war dramas to comedies and historical epics, these German films cover a wide range of genres and provide valuable insights into German society and history.
Whether you want to learn German at home or create personalized language learning lessons for students, these fine examples of German cinema are a great place to start.
1. Das Boot (The Boat)
“Das Boot” is a gripping German-language movie released in 1981, directed by Wolfgang Peterson. Set during World War II, it tells the intense story of a German submarine crew fighting against the Allies in 1941.
While the film may not have a lot of dialogue, it offers a rich portrayal of the war with the use of military vocabulary and references to World War II history.
Watching “Das Boot” provides a unique opportunity for language learners to immerse themselves in the German perspective of the war and gain insights into the challenges faced by submariners.
2. Lola Rennt (Run Lola Run)
“Lola Rennt” is a German-language movie released in 1998 and directed by Tom Tykwer.
The film follows the fast-paced journey of Lola, a woman who must secure 100,000 Deutschmarks (the official currency of West Germany from 1948 until 1990) in 20 minutes to save her boyfriend’s life.
With its thrilling storyline and captivating performance by Franka Potente, the film is a great, educational, and gripping watch.
German Language learners can enjoy “Lola Rennt” for its use of fun slang and colloquialisms, which add a vibrant touch to the German language.
3. Good Bye, Lenin!
“Good Bye Lenin!” is a hilarious movie released in 2003 and directed by Wolfgang Becker.
The film revolves around a young man’s scheme to hide German reunification from his socialist mother, who wakes up from a coma unaware of the recent political changes.
It offers a unique perspective on the German Democratic Republic and provides valuable insights into the cultural and political aspects of reunification.
You will find plenty of interesting cultural notes and useful vocabulary to discuss political ideologies while enjoying the comedic elements of the film.
4. Ostwind – Zusammen Sind Wir Frei (Eastwind – Together We Are Free)
“Ostwind – Zusammen Sind Wir Frei” is a touching German movie released in 2015, directed by Katja von Garnier.
This family film is about a girl forming a special bond with a horse while she spends her summer studying at her grandmother’s stables.
You can enjoy the film’s heartfelt moments while also picking up useful vocabulary, particularly related to equestrian sports.
5. Downfall (Der Untergang)
“Downfall” or “Der Untergang” is an intense and gripping German movie directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel in 2004.
The film provides a fascinating glimpse into the last 10 days of Adolf Hitler’s life, taking place in his bunker during the end of World War II.
It offers not only a historical perspective but also an opportunity to experience the Austrian accent through Bruno Ganz’s remarkable portrayal of Hitler.
“Downfall” is a captivating movie that allows language learners to delve into a significant period in history.
6. Die Bitteren Tränen der Petra von Kant (The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant)
“The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant” is a classic German movie directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder in 1972.
The movie explores the features of unhealthy relationships, such as manipulation, self-humiliation, and power games. The characters have Bavarian accents, adding a unique linguistic flavor to the film.
“The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant” presents a valuable opportunity for you to analyze the complexities of love and hate while also appreciating regional accents.
7. Der Baader Meinhof Komplex (The Baader Meinhof Complex)
“Der Baader Meinhof Komplex” (2008) is an action-packed movie directed by Uli Edel.
It offers a captivating look at the Red Army Faction, a West German left-wing militant group that conducted bombings, assassinations, and bank robberies in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s.
The film provides viewers with a glimpse into the radical movements of that era and is filled with enough slang words to fill a dictionary.
You will enjoy the fast-paced narrative while also expanding your vocabulary. “Der Baader Meinhof Komplex” is a thrilling movie that sheds light on a controversial part of German history while offering valuable language learning opportunities.
8. Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes (Aguirre, the Wrath of God)
“Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes” is a remarkable movie directed by Werner Herzog, released in 1972.
The film follows a conquistador’s descent into madness as he searches for El Dorado, the legendary City of Gold, in the Amazon rainforest.
The movie is best suited for more advanced learners due to the complexity of the German language used.
9. Nirgendwo in Afrika (Nowhere in Africa)
“Nirgendwo in Afrika” is a movie released in 2001 and directed by Caroline Link.
The film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Picture, tells the story of a Jewish family from Germany who relocates to Kenya during World War II.
It offers a compelling narrative with clear and easy-to-understand German dialogue, making it ideal for language learners.
This movie provides a captivating insight into a tumultuous time in history, allowing viewers to learn about World War II from a unique perspective while honing their language skills.
10. Die Vorstadtkrokodile (The Crocodiles)
“Die Vorstadtkrokodile” is a 2001 movie directed by Christian Ditter. Based on a popular young adult novel, the film follows the adventures of a group of kids who form a gang and face challenges together.
This German version of “The Bad News Bears” offers a youthful perspective of the language spoken by contemporary kids, providing you with an opportunity to familiarize yourself with German “kid speak.”
Through this movie, viewers can learn new vocabulary and experience the language as spoken by 21st-century children. “Die Vorstadtkrokodile” is an entertaining and engaging film suitable for kids and families alike.
11. Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others)
“Das Leben der Anderen” is a 2006 German movie that offers a compelling exploration of surveillance and personal freedom.
Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, the film takes place in East Berlin during the Cold War.
It follows the story of a Stasi officer who becomes emotionally involved with the lives of the people he’s assigned to monitor.
“Das Leben der Anderen” provides you with a thought-provoking narrative that allows you to delve into the complexities of interpersonal relationships and the consequences of a surveillance state.
12. Alles ist gut (All Is Well)
“Alles ist gut” is a movie directed by Eva Trobisch. Released in 2018, it tells the story of Janne, a successful lawyer, who grapples with the aftermath of a sexual assault.
The film offers a powerful exploration of trauma, consent, and the challenges faced by survivors. “Alles ist gut” presents language learners with a thought-provoking narrative and useful everyday vocabulary.
Through the film’s realistic portrayal of complex emotions and personal growth, viewers can gain valuable insights into the human experience and deepen their connection with the German language.
FAQs About German Cinema
Below are answers to frequently asked questions on German movies to help you learn the German language.
Can I learn German by watching German movies?
Yes, you can learn German by watching German movies. German-language movies offer a valuable opportunity to immerse yourself in the vernacular, improve your language skills, and experience the cultures of German speakers.
By watching German films, you can learn new vocabulary, practice listening comprehension, and gain exposure to different social situations and dialects, enhancing your overall language-learning journey.
Where can I watch German movies?
There are several options available to watch German movies.
You can find German-language movies on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, where you can access a wide selection of German films with the option of subtitles in your native language.
Additionally, you can explore online platforms and websites that specialize in foreign films, offering a range of German movies for streaming or rental.
Finally, you can also check your local library or film festivals for screenings of German cinema, providing opportunities to watch movies on the big screen and engage with the local film community.
Does Netflix have German movies?
Yes, you can find German movies on Netflix, making it a convenient platform to access German cinema. You will find some of the best German movies on Netflix. Many of these movies come with the option of German subtitles or English subtitles, allowing language learners to enhance their comprehension while enjoying the film.
How do I watch German content on Netflix?
To watch German content on Netflix, simply search for German movies or series in the platform’s search bar. You can use terms like “German language movies” or “German films” to find relevant options.
Once you’ve found a German movie or series, you can choose the audio and subtitle options to suit your language learning needs, such as selecting the original German language with English subtitles. This way, you can enjoy German content on Netflix while improving your language skills.
Summary: 12 German Language Movies to Help You Learn German
German language movies provide a fantastic resource for language learners to improve their German skills while immersing themselves in German culture.
The 12 movies we’ve recommended cover various themes, genres, and historical periods, ensuring there’s something for every language learner’s interest.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of action-packed films, or simply looking for entertaining stories with relatable characters, these movies offer a diverse and engaging language-learning experience.
So, grab some popcorn, turn on the subtitles if needed, and embark on a captivating journey of language acquisition through the power of German cinema. Happy watching and learning!