We just love how much German language content there is available to watch these days, and kicking back with a film or documentary is one of our favourite pastimes, not to mention a brilliant way of pushing those language skills to the next level. Here are 10 German language films and documentaries that we’ve been enjoying recently – some of them we’ve re-watched again and again!
Biking Borders
We’ve recently enjoyed a German documentary called Biking Borders. The show follows two friends as they cycle from Berlin to Beijing to raise money to build a school. As you can imagine, their trip is an emotional roller-coaster, but an adventure that they’ll remember forever.
Munich – The Edge of War
If you’re in the mood for a real thriller, then look no further than Munich – The Edge of War. The latest blockbuster to be released on Netflix is a bilingual German/English film which talks of the relationship between two university friends caught up in the political turmoil of 1938. One works for the UK government, and one for the German resistance. As they are set the task of exchanging a secret document during a summit aiming to prevent the outbreak of war, tensions rise and their relationship is really put to the test. This is gripping stuff and comes highly recommended!
Schubert in Love
Searching for a fun German movie to watch? We recommend Schubert in Love. As the last in his long family line, shy and single Olaf Schubert is pressured by his elderly father to find a partner and continue the family. Dating really isn’t Olaf’s strong point however, and awkward hilarity soon ensues. Check it out now on Netflix for a feel-good watch!
Schumacher
Formula 1 fans and curious minds alike will all enjoy this documentary about the life of Michael Schumacher. Featuring lots of unseen footage along with heartfelt interviews with the Schumacher family, this insider documentary is a real eye opener and offers a fascinating insight into the life and work of this global superstar.
Isi & Ossi
Keen on roms-coms? Try Isi & Ossi! The main characters, Isi and Ossi, are from completely different worlds – one from a family of billionaires, and one who is struggling to make ends meet. The unlikely pair come together and make a deal to help each other out – but will they achieve their goals? And will their partnership last? Find out in this fun German film!
Good Bye Lenin
Looking for a good film to kick back with this weekend? Then Good Bye Lenin is a winner! This highly acclaimed film won both Best German Film and Best European Film awards when it was released back in 2003, and understandably so. This compelling yet witty film tells the tale of a young man named Alex whose mother (a devoted member of the socialist party) falls into a comma just before the fall of the Berlin Wall. When she finally wakes up, the country she has known all her life is completely different – but how will she react, and how will Alex protect his mother in this new and diverse world? An amazing film which is well worth a watch!
Pedal The World
In June 2013, Felix Starck decided to leave everything behind and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. With only a couple of bags, a video camera and a bike, he cycled 18,000 kilometres across 22 countries. Pedal The World is a film that documents his astonishing journey of discovery as he searches for his purpose in life. If you’re learning German and are a fan of travel documentaries, then Pedal The World will be your cup of tea.
Into the Beat
For anyone who enjoys dance-themed films like Step Up, Into the Beat is for you! A talented young ballerina finds herself at a crossroads when she discovers a few-found passion for hip-hop dancing. Will she obey her parents’ wishes of her becoming a professional ballerina, or will her life go in a different direction? Find out in this high-energy film.
Run Lola Run
This iconic 90s film is a must! After a cash delivery goes wrong, Lola finds herself in the high-stress, high-intensity predicament of suddenly needing to get her hands on 100,000 Deutschmarks within a period of just 20 minutes. This clever movie then splits into three potential scenarios with the viewers left to decide the ending for themselves. Run Lola Run is quirky and so gripping!
Downfall
Oscar-nominated Downfall is one of the most famous German films of all time. It follows Hitler’s final days in his bunker as the war draws to a close around him. Based on true events and diaries documenting the details, it’s a compelling historical piece which dramatically depicts the events of April 1945.
Find out more about German language films & documentaries with our online and face-to-face German courses.