222 German Films: A World Cinema Collection
221 titles
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Sommer der GauklerMovie · 2011 · 110mSummer 1780: While traveling to Salzburg, Emanuel Schikaneder's theater group is delayed in a remote Austrian village because they lack a performance permit. The village is gripped by a growing conflict between the mine owner, Paccoli, and the striking miners. This immediately sparks an idea for a new play in Schikaneder. Soon, however, the miners and then Schikaneder’s own performers join the picket line. The performers feel neglected as Schikaneder prioritizes social engagements, and the Landlord refuses to feed them until Schikaneder pays a debt. A spontaneous outdoor performance by the troupe causes widespread chaos.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.0 - 2
The Great Ecstasy of Woodcarver SteinerMovie · 1974 · 45m · DocumentaryThis film is about an extraordinary person who excels at ski-flying while also working as a carpenter. It looks beyond the excitement of ski-flying to explore the character's reasons and how he balances these two demanding passions. The story combines psychological insight with stunning footage of ski-flying, showing both its beauty and risks. Ultimately, it's a story about perseverance and following your dreams despite challenges.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 3
The StreetMovie · 1923 · 79mThe film explores two separate stories that eventually converge. One follows a middle-aged man yearning for an escape from his routine. The other centers on a blind man and his grandson, who rely on each other. The characters are identified only by their descriptions. The city is depicted as a frightening and chaotic expressionistic landscape.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 4
Treasure of Silver LakeMovie · 1962 · 111m · Western, Adventure"Silver Lake Treasure" follows Fred Engel, whose life is shattered when his father is murdered by Colonel Brinkley for a treasure map. Brinkley doesn't have the whole map; Mrs. Butler holds the other piece. Joined by Old Shatterhand and Winnetou, Fred sets out to stop Brinkley and find justice. They journey through dangerous landscapes, using their wits to overcome their enemies while racing to discover the legendary wealth hidden in Silver Lake. It’s a test of courage and determination against time.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 5
The Wild Soccer BunchMovie · 2003 · 94m · Comedy, FamilyWith summer break here, a group of spirited kids lives for soccer. They see themselves as the best team around and are always striving to get better. They believe that being daring is the key to fitting in. But when constant rain floods their field, they're forced to stop playing. When the weather clears, a group of older, tougher boys has taken over. They'll only return the field if the kids can beat them in a game.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.4 - 6
Return to GoMovie · 2001 · 90mWhen Sam, a struggling Afro-German singer, learns he has HIV, he briefly descends into despair, but soon rediscovers love. In the fading landscape of former East Berlin – its buildings, cars, people, and culture – Sam builds a new kind of family for a generation living with AIDS. This fragile group includes his boyfriend Rainer, and his friend Bastl with his partner Mike. Like the sentimental East German songs Sam is recording, the characters' innocence fights to endure despite their hardships.IMDb 6.6TMDB 2.7 - 7
The Congress DancesMovie · 1931 · 94mIn Vienna, Christel, a glove seller, falls for Russian Czar Alexander. Austrian statesman Prince Metternich attempts to distract the Czar with Christel and other pleasant diversions to prevent him from participating in the crucial negotiation conferences of the 1815 Vienna Congress.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.2 - 8
KrabatMovie · 2008 · 120m · Action, Fantasy, HorrorTo escape the brutality of the Thirty Years War, fourteen-year-old orphan Krabat becomes an apprentice to a mysterious master at a secluded mill. He learns the mill's trade, but is also taught dark magic. When his friend and guardian is in danger, Krabat must fight to break free from an evil sorcerer's power in a desperate struggle for freedom, friendship, and love.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 9
Sometime in AugustMovie · 2009 · 92mThomas and Hanna, a joyful couple in their late 30s, buy a fixer-upper in the countryside, hoping to renovate it over the summer. Hanna is excited for quality time together, so she's unhappy when Thomas invites his older brother, Friedrich, to join them. Friedrich is struggling with depression following the loss of his business and his marriage. Thomas tries to lighten the mood with constant activity, but Hanna becomes withdrawn and responds by bringing her young godchild, Augustine, to the house. Augustine’s youthful appearance has a disruptive effect on Thomas, stirring up suppressed desires.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 10
My FührerMovie · 2007 · 89m · War, Comedy, DramaHaunted by self-doubt, Hitler struggles to maintain his own belief in himself, even perceiving himself as inferior to his dog. To rally the public for the war effort, he needs a powerful speech. Goebbels arranges for Grünbaum, a Jewish acting teacher and his family, to be moved from the camps to coach Hitler in rhetoric. Torn by conflicting feelings, Grünbaum begins Hitler's therapy.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.6 - 11
The BridgeMovie · 1959 · 103m · Drama, History, WarBased on Gregor Dorfmeister's anti-war novel, the film follows a group of young German boys guarding a small bridge in their hometown as World War II ends. While exhausted soldiers retreat from American forces, the boys cling to Nazi ideals of "blood and honor."
The movie explores how war affects not only soldiers but also young people, who are deeply influenced by a violent ideology they don't fully grasp. It’s an emotional story about how wartime propaganda can mislead and blind young minds, leading to tragic outcomes.
The film contrasts the boys' naive beliefs with the brutal reality of war. It's a heartbreaking look at the horrors of conflict and a reminder of the need to question the world around us.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 12
The Eleven DevilsMovie · 1927 · 98m"The Eleven Devils," a Berlin film released in the summer of 1927 during the final years of silent movies, feels surprisingly prescient. An early caption declares "Football, the sport of the century." The film presents the ball as a revered object and depicts fans, even in those early days, readily resorting to physical violence on the terraces.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 13WeekendMovie · 1930 · 11mWeekend is a film originally made for the Berlin Radio Hour. Before this, Ruttmann had created many acclaimed experimental films, including Opus I-IV and the impressive Berlin: Symphony of a City (1927). With the arrival of sound films, he became fascinated by how audiences react to audio and premiered a film with no visuals. On June 13th, 1930, the audience gathered, the lights dimmed, and the film's sound began to play. But the screen remained completely blank.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9
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The Girl on the Diving BoardMovie · 1967 · 95mEighteen-year-old Katharina Jens is a high diving champion, consistently achieving success. She steps in for her teammate Claudia at an international competition, where expectations are sky-high. But when she fails to complete a difficult dive – a one-and-a-half somersault with a double twist – her team loses. Suddenly, doubts arise about whether she truly deserves her reputation.TMDB 5.0 - 15
Nachrichten aus der ideologischen Antike: Marx/Eisenstein/Das KapitalMovie · 2008 · 570mAlexander Kluge's *News from Ideological Antiquity* opens with Soviet filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein's grand, unfinished project to merge Karl Marx's *Capital* and James Joyce's *Ulysses*. The film unfolds over nine hours, expanding outward as Kluge, along with guests and speakers, draws connections between various subjects. These connections begin with a cinematic examination of Eisenstein's original notes.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.8 - 16
Clothes Make the ManMovie · 1940 · 100mTailor Wenzel loses his job after making a fancy coat for himself instead of the mayor. He's allowed to keep the coat and wears it as he leaves. A puppeteer picks him up and calls him "Count." Wenzel is then welcomed as Count Stroganoff, the Russian ambassador, in the town of Goldach.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 17
North FaceMovie · 2008 · 126m · Adventure, Drama, ActionNorth Face recounts the story of two German climbers, Toni Kurz and Andreas Hinterstoisser, and their effort to climb the treacherous North Face of the Eiger.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 18
Nowhere in AfricaMovie · 2001 · 140m · DramaJettel Redlich, a Jewish woman, escapes Nazi Germany with her daughter Regina to reunite with her husband, Walter, on his farm in Kenya. Jettel struggles to embrace their new life, clinging to familiar comforts like china and formal wear. Regina, however, adapts quickly and develops a close friendship with Owuor, her father's cook, who is African.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 19
The WaveMovie · 2008 · 107m · Drama, ThrillerDuring a lesson on government, a teacher discusses various systems with his students. Disinterested in the topic, the students find the repeated discussion of National Socialism tedious and dismiss the possibility of dictatorship in contemporary Germany. To demonstrate the susceptibility of people to manipulation, the teacher initiates an experiment.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 20
The Kaiser's LackeyMovie · 1951 · 109mDiederich Heßling is deeply afraid of people and the world around him. However, he learns that gaining power requires serving those in authority, adopting the philosophy of deference to the powerful and dominance over the weak. This strategy brings him success as a student in a duel-fighting fraternity and later as a businessman in a paper factory. He skillfully gains the favor of the influential district administrator, Von Wulkow, while undermining his competitors and forming alliances with social democrats. During his honeymoon with his wealthy wife, Guste, he seizes an opportunity to assist the Kaiser. When a Kaiser memorial is unveiled in his town, Diederich delivers the address, saluting the Kaiser in the rain as the crowd disperses and everything falls into chaos.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 21
Storm Over Mont BlancMovie · 1930 · 93mHannes works at the Mont Blanc Observatory, his only link to the outside world being a pilot and a woman named Hella on the radio. Hella travels to the mountain, but her father dies during the ascent.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 22
The White EcstasyMovie · 1931 · 70mHannes, a young woman from a village, strives to learn skiing and ski-jumping with the help of a local expert.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.2 - 23
S.O.S. IcebergMovie · 1933 · 87mA team embarks on a search for a group of people who disappeared in the Arctic the previous year.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 24
The Zernik Murder CaseMovie · 1972 · 100mErwin Retzmann meets a woman on a train and subsequently murders her in the forest.IMDb 6.8TMDB 4.8 - 25
Sophie Scholl: The Final DaysMovie · 2005 · 117m · Drama, HistoryIn 1943, with Hitler's war raging across Europe, a group of college students in Munich form an underground resistance movement called the White Rose, dedicated to ending the Third Reich. Sophie Scholl, one of the few women in the group, is captured while distributing pamphlets on campus with her brother Hans. During her interrogation by the Gestapo, Scholl fiercely defends her beliefs and calls for freedom and individual responsibility, leading to a powerful clash of wills.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 26
The Bitter Tears of Petra von KantMovie · 1972 · 124m · Drama, RomancePetra von Kant is a celebrated fashion designer known for her sharp wit and sophisticated creations. Yet, beneath her confident facade, she is a profoundly lonely woman who finds it difficult to form genuine connections. Her harsh treatment of Marlene, a secretary who becomes a maid and later a co-designer, highlights the emotional cost of this isolation.
Then comes Karin, a young and beautiful aspiring model who enters Petra's life with hopeful energy, captivating the hardened designer. Petra becomes intensely drawn to Karin and invites her into her home, offering support for her modeling dreams. Their relationship develops into a complicated dynamic involving power shifts, vulnerability, and personal revelations as both women confront their desires and insecurities.
The film explores the turbulent connection between Petra von Kant and Karin, examining themes of self-destruction, codependency, and the potential for love to be transformative when it transcends societal norms and personal biases.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 27
The Lives of OthersMovie · 2006 · 137m · Drama, ThrillerEast Berlin, 1984. A dedicated Stasi officer, Gerd Wiesler, is assigned to monitor a celebrated playwright and his actress partner, Christa-Maria. As Wiesler observes them, he develops unexpected empathy for the couple, leading him to struggle with conflicting loyalties when his superior becomes interested in Christa-Maria.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.0 - 28
TecumsehMovie · 1972 · 109mIn the early 1800s, white settlers routinely tricked Native Americans into giving up large hunting lands for minimal compensation, often through broken treaties and without violence. Indiana Governor Harrison has orchestrated at least fifteen of these agreements, forcing more and more Native people westward into poor territory. To resist this injustice, Shawnee Chief Tecumseh attempts to unite the tribes.IMDb 5.7TMDB 4.4 - 29
The Miracle of BernMovie · 2003 · 118m · Drama, ComedyThe film centers on the 1954 German soccer team's championship victory. Interwoven with this is the story of a family torn apart by World War II, and a father's return from Russia after an eleven-year absence. A reporter and his wife also document the tournament's events.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 30
LiebeleiMovie · 1933 · 88m · Drama, RomanceIn early 1900s Vienna, Cavalry Lieutenant Fritz Lobheimer is ending a passionate affair with Baroness Eggerdorff when he meets Christine, a vibrant young woman whose father is an opera violinist. Their connection is threatened when the Baron discovers Fritz's past, putting their new relationship at risk. The film explores the complexities of love, social class, and morality during a time of great change, examining forgiveness, loyalty, and the search for happiness amidst hardship.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 31
(T)Raumschiff Surprise - Periode 1Movie · 2004 · 87m · Comedy, Science Fiction, AdventureCenturies after humans colonized Mars, Regulator Rogul and Lord Jens Maul command a Martian force to invade Earth. Queen Metaphor turns to the gay heroes on the spaceship *Surprise* – Captain Kork, Mr. Spuck, and first engineer Schrotty – for assistance.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.2 - 32
Where Is Fred?Movie · 2006 · 107m · Comedy, RomanceTo get a basketball from his girlfriend's son's favorite team, Fred pretends to be a disabled fan in a wheelchair. When he catches the ball, he attracts the attention of Denise, a young filmmaker who wants to include him in a promotional video for the team. Fred must maintain his charade, all while avoiding exposure from Ronny, a genuine and angry disabled fan. And complicating matters, he unexpectedly starts falling in love.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 33
DestinyMovie · 1921 · 98m · Drama, FantasyA young couple finds unexpected refuge in a mysterious village inn, setting in motion a series of events that challenge their love and strength. When the man is suddenly taken by Death, the woman journeys to find him within an impossible barrier.
She discovers a hidden entrance and enters an otherworldly realm where she meets Death. He presents her with three stories set in different parts of the world, each exploring the pain of lost love and the characters' struggles with mortality, reflecting her own desperate situation. These stories offer wisdom about life and death, guiding her toward understanding their connection.
This suspenseful and beautiful story explores love, loss, and what it means to be human. It’s a powerful journey that makes us question time, fate, and the bonds between people.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 34
VarietyMovie · 1925 · 104m · Drama, Crime, Romance"Boss" Huller is released from prison after serving ten years and decides to share his life story with the warden. The film explores the complicated life of this mysterious man, examining guilt, forgiveness, and how stories change people. As "Boss" recounts the difficult events that led him to a life of crime, he transforms from a notorious figure into a thoughtful storyteller. This moving journey reveals the many sides of Huller's personality and raises questions about how society treats people who are incarcerated and the nature of justice today.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6 - 35
The PromiseMovie · 1995 · 115mEast Berlin, 1961. Shortly after the construction of the Wall, Konrad, Sophie, and three friends plan a risky escape to West Germany. They succeed, but Konrad is left behind. For the next 28 years, Konrad and Sophie will try to reunite, despite the divide. Konrad, now a respected astrophysicist, uses scientific conferences outside East Germany to arrange meetings with Sophie. However, in a country where the Stasi monitors everyone, protecting privacy and personal beliefs becomes a constant struggle as the Eastern bloc begins to fall apart.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 36
Madame DuBarryMovie · 1919 · 114mThis is the story of Madame DuBarry, the influential mistress of King Louis XV of France, and the relationships she navigates against the backdrop of the French Revolution.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 37
DownfallMovie · 2004 · 155m · Drama, History, WarApril 1945. With the Soviet Army advancing from the east and the Allied forces attacking from the west, Germany faces imminent defeat. In Berlin, Adolf Hitler declares Germany will still win and orders his generals to fight to the death. When Hitler dies by suicide, the remaining German military must find a way to stop the fighting and surrender.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 38
Carbide and SorrelMovie · 1963 · 85mFollowing World War II, Dresden faces extensive rebuilding. Kalle needs to reactivate his old cigarette factory, requiring him to journey to Wittenberg – the only source of carbide. He then finds himself hitchhiking back to Dresden with seven heavy barrels of carbide. His resourcefulness and positive outlook turn this difficult trip into an exciting, humorous adventure.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 39
Run Lola RunMovie · 1998 · 80m · Action, Drama, ThrillerLola and Manni's love is tested when Manni loses a large amount of money to a dangerous criminal. With only 20 minutes to find 100,000 Deutsche Marks, Lola must undertake a desperate mission to save him from resorting to theft. Her search takes her down unexpected paths, each influenced by small events. This suspenseful drama explores loyalty and love as Lola confronts the consequences of their choices.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 40
Ways to Strength and BeautyMovie · 1925 · 104mThe film explores the idea of the ideal body as something to be revered. Inspired by the 1920s fitness and body-building craze, it promotes physical training through stylized documentary sequences. These include demonstrations of hygiene, gymnastics, sports, and dance, alongside scenes featuring nude figures posed as ancient athletes.IMDb 5.9TMDB 7.1 - 41
Poem: I Set My Foot Upon the Air and It Carried MeMovie · 2003 · 95mThis is a collection of poems.IMDb 6.8TMDB 9.0 - 42
Rebus-Film Nr. 1Movie · 1925 · 15mThis film is presented in two parts, shown before and after a main movie. The first part offers clues to six words in a crossword puzzle. The second part reveals the answers. The clues are visual, featuring clips of a party, an Asian country, a European city, table games, winter scenes, and bullfighting. There are also montages of street scenes and spinning objects. A cartoon character named Mr. Rebus guides viewers through the clues, and on-screen text encourages audience participation.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.7 - 43
The Trapp FamilyMovie · 1956 · 106m"The Trapp Family" is a true story adapted from the popular novel by Baroness Von Trapp of Austria. The film, released in 1956, preceded the better-known movie about the Trapp family's life, "The Sound of Music."IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 44
Spring SymphonyMovie · 1983 · 103m"Spring Symphony" tells the story of Robert Schumann and Clara Wieck, two exceptionally talented musicians. Robert Schumann was a composer who, while respected, never reached the level of legendary figures like Beethoven or Mozart. Clara Wieck, in contrast, was a remarkable pianist, a composer herself (though likely not surpassing Schumann), and a child prodigy.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.4 - 45
Chingachgook: The Great SnakeMovie · 1967 · 92mChingachgook, a Mohawk-born Delaware warrior, journeys to rescue his wife Wahtawah from Huron enemies. He teams up with his trusted companion Deerslayer, facing prejudice from settlers and violence from British soldiers along the way. Deerslayer attracts the attention of Judith, sparking jealousy in her suitor, Harry. The story follows a pattern of movement between a lakeside home and the Huron camp, building to a violent conclusion.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.8 - 46
Young TörlessMovie · 1966 · 87m · DramaIn early 1900s Austria, the film follows Törless, a quiet and thoughtful boy, as he tries to understand the social dynamics of his schoolmates. He observes their growing cruelty towards a classmate who is the target of their sadistic games. As the torment worsens, Törless is forced to face the consequences of his passivity and question his own values.
"Young Törless," based on Robert Musil's novel, offers a disturbing look at the dark side of teenage friendships. The film launched the New German Cinema movement and was the debut work of director Volker Schlöndorff, who won the 1966 Cannes Film Festival International Critics' Prize for this film. This powerful adaptation explores the complexities of youth, power, and personal responsibility, leaving a lasting impact.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 47
FitzcarraldoMovie · 1982 · 157mFitzcarraldo, a visionary, aims to construct an opera house in Iquitos, deep in the Peruvian Amazon. To fund this ambitious undertaking, he sets out on a grand expedition to gather rubber in a remote and largely uncharted part of the rainforest.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 48
The Loves of PharaohMovie · 1922 · 100mTo ensure peace between their kingdoms, the Ethiopian King agrees to give his daughter to the powerful Pharaoh.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 49
What to Do in Case of Fire?Movie · 2001 · 101m · Thriller, Drama, ComedyThis is a funny and heartwarming story about six former radical artists who lived as squatters in Berlin during the city's vibrant 1980s, when it was isolated within East Germany. By the end of the decade, they drifted apart, except for Tim and Hotte, who stayed committed to their shared beliefs and continued their activism. In 2000, as Berlin becomes Germany’s capital, an unforeseen event compels them to reunite and confront the reasons for their separation twelve years earlier.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2 - 50
Diary of a Lost GirlMovie · 1929 · 113m · DramaThis story follows Thymian Henning, a young girl who is brutally raped by her father's pharmacy clerk. She becomes pregnant and faces abandonment by her family in a world that offers no support. Forced to become a young mother, she struggles with the emotional trauma of her past while trying to survive.
The film explores themes of abandonment, survival, and injustice as Thymian confronts adversity. It’s a raw portrayal of a young woman's fight for hope and belonging. The story examines how far people will go to overcome hardship and find a sense of community.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 51
NosferatuMovie · 1922 · 89mA real estate agent, happily married, is summoned by the enigmatic Count Orlok to the Count's castle in the Transylvanian mountains to finalize a disturbing transaction.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 52
Wings of DesireMovie · 1987 · 128m · Drama, Fantasy, RomanceIn Berlin, two angels, Damiel and Cassiel, observe humanity, offering silent comfort without direct involvement. Damiel, however, develops a strong connection with Marion, a lonely trapeze artist, and begins to question his purpose, longing for a taste of mortal life. He finds an unexpected guide in Peter Falk, a reclusive actor who helps him understand how to bridge the gap between angel and human. Torn between his divine nature and his desire for human experience, Damiel must navigate this opportunity to live among mortals, facing the potential consequences of his choice.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 53
SupermarketMovie · 1974 · 84m · Crime, Drama, ActionWilli, an aimless 18-year-old, wanders the city streets with no clear direction or support. He meets people who offer help and those who exploit his weakness. The arrival of Monica, another young person battling deep despair, profoundly affects Willi, making him question his own life.
Wanting to change their lives, Willi devises a risky plan to rob a supermarket's money transporter. As they face their struggles together, Willi and Monica develop a powerful connection tested by the dangerous heist. The film examines resilience, friendship in difficult times, and the desperation people feel when society leaves them behind. Willi’s story reveals the challenges young people face trying to survive and protect themselves.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 54
Beste ZeitMovie · 2007 · 95mKati, who drives her parents' VW bus – despite not having a license – and enjoys the freedom of Bavaria, and her best friend Jo spend their time pondering life's big questions over beer. Kati’s boyfriend, Mike, recently returned from military service, but while she longs for romance, he seems unconcerned. Adding to the pressure is her difficult relationship with her father.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 55
The Tin DrumMovie · 1979 · 162m · Drama, History, War"The Tin Drum," adapted from Günter Grass's novel, tells the story of Oskar Matzerath, a boy who refuses to be born until he gets a tin drum. Gifted and cynical about adults, Oskar promises himself he won't grow up by his third birthday, and remarkably, his wish comes true. Trapped in a child's body as Nazi Germany gains power in Danzig, he beats his tin drum in protest against the hypocrisy and injustice around him. The film explores themes of innocence lost, disillusionment, and resistance, offering a unique look at how World War II affects those who are most vulnerable.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 56
QuerelleMovie · 1982 · 109m · Drama, CrimeThis drama follows a handsome Belgian sailor on leave in Brest who hides a dangerous secret: he's deeply involved in drug smuggling and burdened by past crimes. While exploring the town's hidden side, he unexpectedly begins a passionate and often violent exploration of his own homosexuality. This transformative journey challenges his identity and forces him to confront the consequences of his actions as he grapples with new emotions and desires. The film portrays his intense inner struggle to reconcile his dark past with a changing sense of self.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 57
Jacob the LiarMovie · 1974 · 100mEastern Europe, 1944. In a Jewish ghetto, Jakob Heym accidentally overhears a German radio report detailing the Soviet Army's advance into central Europe. To dissuade his friend Mischa from taking dangerous risks for food, Jakob lies, claiming he has a radio – an act punishable by death within the ghetto. News of Jakob’s secret quickly spreads, igniting a spark of hope and giving people a reason to live. Jakob is then faced with the growing need to fabricate more and more stories.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 58
The Lost Honor of Katharina BlumMovie · 1975 · 104m · DramaA woman's life changes when she meets a man on the run from the law. Drawn to his story, she becomes involved in protecting him from the police and media. As threats increase, she is forced to confront escalating danger and ultimately resorts to violence to protect herself and him. The film explores themes of personal power, societal expectations, and the ambiguity of justice. This gripping, realistic story, focused on its characters, maintains a strong pace and will captivate audiences.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 59
Marianne and JulianeMovie · 1981 · 106m · DramaIn 1968 Germany, this drama explores the lives of two sisters, Marianna and Juliane, both deeply committed to social change, particularly the legalization of abortion. Juliane pursues injustice through investigative journalism, while Marianna joins a radical group willing to use extreme measures.
After Marianna is arrested and imprisoned, Juliane remains her only connection to the outside world. Despite disagreements over methods and pressure from her boyfriend, Wolfgang, Juliane supports Marianna and begins to question the justice system's response to those fighting for their beliefs.
The film examines sisterhood, the pursuit of change, and the consequences of radical action. As the sisters navigate their differing paths, they confront internal conflicts and grapple with the question of whether the ends justify the means.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 60
Berlin-Alexanderplatz: The Story of Franz BiberkopfMovie · 1931 · 90mAfter serving a four-year prison sentence, Franz Biberkopf struggles to reintegrate into society. His attempt to live an honest life proves difficult.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9 - 61
Grave DecisionsMovie · 2006 · 105m · Drama, ComedyThis black comedy takes place in a small Bavarian town. Eleven-year-old Sebastian believes it's never too early to be a murderer. He's convinced he killed his own mother at birth and believes he's already serving time in purgatory. Hoping to shorten his sentence by performing good deeds, Sebastian decides to find a wife for his father, Lorenz. When Lorenz and Sebastian’s schoolteacher, Veronika, fall deeply in love, it seems like good fortune. However, Veronika is already married.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 62
Wenn die Abendglocken läutenMovie · 1930Michael rescues his young girlfriend from drowning. He intends to propose marriage to his childhood friend.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.0 - 63
Death Is My TradeMovie · 1977 · 145mThis is a biography of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of the Auschwitz concentration camp.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.4 - 64
Olympia Part One: Festival of the NationsMovie · 1938 · 127m · DocumentarySet during the 1936 Olympic Games in Germany, Leni Riefenstahl’s documentary is a visually striking look at human athleticism. Originally intended as propaganda, the film became a celebration of the human body's beauty and strength. It begins with a memorable scene that connects the modern Olympics to ancient Greek athletics, emphasizing the enduring quality of athletic achievement. The film then presents captivating footage from numerous competitions, notably the remarkable success of African-American athlete Jesse Owens, who won an unprecedented four gold medals. Riefenstahl’s exceptional cinematography and admiration for the artistry of sport create a compelling and lasting impression.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 65
The Last IllusionMovie · 1949 · 106mIn 1948, Professor Mauthner returns to Germany after years of living in exile since emigrating to the USA in 1933. He is able to resume his teaching position, but faces relentless rejection and spiteful maneuvering from his conservative colleagues and students, making his work environment deeply unpleasant.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.3 - 66
RosenstrasseMovie · 2003 · 136m · Drama, WarIn 2000, the death of her husband prompts Ruth to observe strict Jewish mourning customs, confusing her children. A visitor arrives – Ruth’s cousin, bearing a photograph of Ruth as an eight-year-old in Berlin with a woman who helped her escape. Hannah, Ruth's daughter who is engaged to a non-Jewish man, travels to Berlin to find Lena Fisher, now 90 years old. Posing as a journalist researching intermarriage, Hannah interviews Lena, who recounts a pivotal week in 1943 when Jewish husbands of Aryan women were held in a building on Rosenstrasse. The women would gather daily, hoping for news of their husbands. The film alternates between Ruth and Lena’s stories, raising the question of how this revelation will impact Hannah.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 67
Manitou's ShoeMovie · 2001 · 85m · Western, Comedy, AdventureAbahachi, the Apache chief, and his trusted friend Ranger uphold law and order in the American West. When Abahachi borrows money from the Shoshone tribe to build a saloon for his people, Santa Maria, the saloon's previous owner, deceives him by taking the funds and fleeing. Now, the Shoshones are determined to reclaim their money, forcing Abahachi to swiftly rally his tribe.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8 - 68
HomelandMovie · 1938 · 98mIn 1885, renowned New York opera singer Maddalena dall'Orto is set to perform at a festival in the German estate of Ilmingen. It quickly becomes apparent that she is actually Magda von Schwartze, who departed the town eight years prior to pursue her singing career against her father’s wishes.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.0 - 69
The Heath Is GreenMovie · 1951 · 90mFollowing World War II, Lüder Lüdersen, a former feudal estate owner from the East, and his daughter Helga seek refuge in the Lüneburg Heath. While living a seemingly peaceful life on his cousin's estate, Lüdersen harbors a secret: he is a poacher.IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.0 - 70
Napoleon Is to Blame for EverythingMovie · 1938 · 91mEnglish Lord Arthur Cavershoot is a devoted Napoleon enthusiast who neglects his wife Josephine in favor of his historical passion. When the scholarly lord travels to a Napoleon conference in Paris, his perceptive wife secretly follows him. Unbeknownst to her, the city of love creates an unexpected attraction between Arthur and a chorus girl.IMDb 7.2TMDB 9.0 - 71
The Patriotic WomanMovie · 1979 · 121mGabi Teichert, a history teacher, feels that history textbooks offer a distorted view of the past. She seeks a more hands-on way to explore history, employing physical methods like digging and dismantling books to uncover it.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 72
The House in MontevideoMovie · 1951 · 106mProfessor Traugott Nägler, his wife Marianne, and their large family enjoy a peaceful life in a small town, guided by strong moral principles. Their idyllic existence is disrupted when their eldest daughter Atlanta inherits a house in Montevideo, previously owned by the professor's late sister, setting the stage for significant changes.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.0 - 73
Before the FallMovie · 2004 · 117m · DramaIn 1942, Friedrich Weimer's boxing talent earns him a place at a National Political Academy, a school designed to groom future Nazi leaders. Against his father’s wishes, Friedrich enrolls. During his time there, he experiences bullying, brutality, and the strict Nazi ideology. His close friendship with Albrecht, the reserved son of the local governor, is a defining part of his experience.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 74
Midnight RevueMovie · 1962 · 104mProduction manager Kruse, lacking actors and a crew, boldly claims he can direct a revue film. To save face, he assembles a team of four – a dramaturg, composer, writer, and architect – tasking them with transforming his concept into a reality. Aside from the eager, relatively unknown composer Alexander Ritter, the rest of the team finds themselves caught in Kruse's predicament.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9 - 75
Olympia Part Two: Festival of BeautyMovie · 1938 · 104m · DocumentaryIn 1936, German filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl was commissioned to film the Olympic Games in Berlin. The two-part documentary, *Festival of the Nations* and *The Festival of Beauty*, offers a detailed look at the athletes and the human body on display during this international event.
*Festival of the Nations* highlights the global participation in the games, while *The Festival of Beauty* focuses on individual athletes competing in events like equestrian sports, gymnastics, and swimming. The film features compelling performances, including that of American Glenn Morris in the decathlon, and concludes with a powerful depiction of the Olympic closing ceremonies. Through Riefenstahl's camera, *The Festival of Beauty* presents a celebration of human accomplishment, beauty, and unity.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.7 - 76
Lulu and JimiMovie · 2009 · 94mThis road movie follows Lulu and Jimi as they embrace love, rock & roll, and break free from the constraints of the 1950s. They face opposition from Lulu's mother Gertrud, her lover Schultz (the chauffeur), and a sinister psychiatrist, Von Oppeln, who plots against Lulu. Set against a backdrop of vibrant colors, energetic music, and lively dance sequences, the film explores the struggle of a couple fleeing a prejudiced society. It’s a drama about the relationship between a young black man and a wealthy German woman.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.7 - 77
The State I Am InMovie · 2001 · 106m · DramaClara and Hans are left-wing terrorists who have evaded police for nearly fifteen years. Their daughter, Jeanne, starts to jeopardize their safety when she develops a relationship with a young man she meets at the beach.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 78
SonnenalleeMovie · 1999 · 101m · ComedyIn Berlin's Sonnenallee, a group of spirited children grow up amidst a mix of cultures and beliefs during the Cold War. Located near the border crossing for East and West Germans, this story follows their coming-of-age. Surrounded by unusual people – family, friends from West Germany, and East German border guards – the everyday absurdities of life in East Germany become clear. The film blends humor with the challenges these young characters face as they navigate political divisions and social complexities, painting a detailed picture of a unique period in history.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 79
Faraway, So Close!Movie · 1993 · 146m · Drama, FantasyDamiel is happily married to Marion and has a child, and he runs the busy pizzeria "Da Angelo." Meanwhile, Cassiel, the last angel, observes humanity as a detached spectator. Dissatisfied, he makes a significant decision to enter the human world, assuming the identity of Karl Engel.
As Karl, Cassiel becomes involved with a shady organization run by a German-American baker who trades in illegal arms and films for weapons. His story becomes a suspenseful one as Cassiel grows determined to stop the baker's criminal activities. His experiences in this world of deceit and crime provide a distinctive look at an angel confronting morality, identity, and purpose within the human world.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 80
Friedrich Schiller - Eine DichterjugendMovie · 1923 · 111mCurt Goetz's film centers on the young Friedrich Schiller, exploring his inner turmoil during his time at the military academy. It depicts his rebellion against the rigid physical training and limited intellectual environment of the school. The film also portrays his early fascination with Shakespeare, Klopstock, and Lessing, his resentment towards unfair authority, his relationships with women, and his struggles with financial difficulties.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.0 - 81
Hotel SacherMovie · 1939 · 88mVienna, New Year's Eve 1913, on the cusp of World War I. Amidst festive celebrations in the Hotel Sacher, a tense atmosphere underlies the excitement, fueled by hidden hatred and intolerance. It is here that Nadja, a Russian spy, encounters Stefan, an Austrian civil servant. He is deeply in love with her, but their relationship raises suspicions, leading to accusations that he might be working for the enemy.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.7 - 82
Divided HeavenMovie · 1964 · 116mFollowing a breakdown, Rita returns to her childhood village in 1961. While recovering, she reflects on the past two years: her relationship with Manfred, a chemist ten years her senior. She recalls his excitement about a new chemical process that ultimately faced official disapproval. Shortly before the construction of the Berlin Wall, Manfred fled to West Berlin, hoping Rita would join him.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 83
Ali: Fear Eats the SoulMovie · 1974 · 93mEmmi Kurowski, an elderly cleaning lady, feels isolated after her husband's death and limited connection with her adult children. Seeking companionship, she begins a friendship with Ali, a middle-aged mechanic from the Arab community, at a local bar. Their bond deepens into a romantic relationship, which draws criticism from Emmi's family and neighbors. This pressure forces Emmi and Ali to examine their own doubts about what lies ahead.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 84
Hunting Scenes from BavariaMovie · 1969 · 82mAbram goes back to his quiet hometown, where his talent for fixing things is welcome. However, he faces difficulties because the villagers distrust him due to rumors about his sexuality.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 85
Rasputin, Demon of the WomenMovie · 1932 · 82mThis historical thriller follows Rasputin, a figure of dark influence, who survives an attempt on his life through poisoning. He continues his manipulative and harmful actions.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.5 - 86
Die ScheinheiligenMovie · 2001 · 80mDaxenbrunn, a small town situated on the route to Salzburg, sees Mayor Matthias and Dr. Seigis seize a chance to revitalize the community and boost its finances – "Chicken, I couldn't want more." A highway restaurant is planned, requiring not only a building permit but also the land itself, fiercely guarded by the determined farmer's wife Magdalena. Meanwhile, the arrival of art carver Johannes and asylum seeker Theophile throws the village into disarray with their unconventional approaches.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.8 - 87
Die Mädels vom ImmenhofMovie · 1955 · 91mGranny Jantzen runs the Immenhof pony farm in Northern Germany with her granddaughters, Dick, Dalli, and Angela. With pony breeding no longer profitable, Granny Jantzen is fighting to save the family farm. This summer, young Ethelbert visits his cousins at Immenhof. While Angela is in love with the wealthy landowner Jochen von Roth, Dick and Dalli must deal with the conceited city boy Ethelbert.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.8 - 88
The Blue AngelMovie · 1930 · 108m · DramaThe film centers on Immanuel Rath, a reserved professor who becomes curious when he notices his students are fascinated by cabaret dancer Lola Lola. He goes to The Blue Angel nightclub to find them and is drawn to Lola Lola's captivating performance. This sparks a strong passion in him, leading him to quit his job and marry her. He soon discovers that marrying a woman whose profession involves attracting men brings unexpected difficulties. This drama explores themes of forbidden desires, societal expectations, and the complexities of love in an unconventional situation.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 89
Zero HourMovie · 1977 · 108mJuly 1945. As American soldiers depart Saxony and Thuringia, the Soviet Red Army assumes control of the region. In a small village outside Leipzig, the residents struggle to adapt to the new regime.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.6 - 90
Virgin MachineMovie · 1989 · 84mA German woman journeys to San Francisco to locate her mother, but becomes captivated by the city's open and expressive sexual atmosphere.IMDb 5.6TMDB 4.3 - 91
The Woman of My DreamsMovie · 1944 · 93mMarika Rökk stars as Julia Koster, a stunning red-headed performer in a popular musical. Her opening number, "At Night It Isn't Right To Be Alone," captivates the audience with its visual appeal and powerful performance.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.1 - 92
The Cabinet of Dr. CaligariMovie · 1920 · 77mFrancis, a young man, remembers the disturbing events he and his fiancée Jane recently endured. Francis and his friend Alan visit The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, an exhibition where the enigmatic doctor displays the somnambulist Cesare, briefly awakening him from his deathlike slumber.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 93HotelMovie · 1976 · 27mThrough his editing, Emigholz breaks away from a straightforward story structure, then reassembles the footage around recurring visual themes. This process gives the images a fresh layer of significance.IMDb 6.6
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The Emperor of CaliforniaMovie · 1936 · 97mThe film chronicles the life of Johann Augustus Suter, the owner of Sutter's Mill, which became the site of the California Gold Rush in 1848.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.6 - 95
Heart of GlassMovie · 1976 · 94m · DramaIn a charming Bavarian village famous for its exquisite "Ruby Glass," the community is devastated by the sudden death of the glassworks foreman. He leaves behind a vital secret, essential to the town's prosperity. As despair settles in, the glassworks owner becomes consumed with finding the lost secret, hoping to revive the village's past and secure its future. His quest leads him on a journey of mystery, determination, and personal growth.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 96
The Nasty GirlMovie · 1990 · 92m · Comedy, DramaA young woman investigates her town's hidden history with the Nazi regime, uncovering secrets that spark controversy and anger within the close community. As she digs deeper, she faces hostility and forces the town to confront its past complicity in the horrors of war. The story highlights courage and determination in the face of opposition and the power of truth to change a community. Determined to find answers despite resistance, she strives to reveal the full story of her town's connection to a dark chapter in history. Her journey is an inspiring reminder that seeking justice and truth must not be silenced by fear.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 97
Rhythm 21Movie · 1921 · 3m · AnimationThis animated short offers a visually striking experience within a simple world of grey and white squares against a dark background. These geometric shapes constantly change size and form, evolving from basic squares into more complex patterns. The result is a meditative film that explores ideas of shape, movement, and simplicity, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty in this abstract universe.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.5 - 98
SubjectivityMovie · 1967 · 4mSander's debut film is a sharp, four-minute feminist short that examines a common urban moment: people waiting at a bustling Berlin bus stop. The film balances tension with a playful approach.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0 - 99
Young Goethe in LoveMovie · 2010 · 102m · Romance, DramaFollowing his failure to pass law exams, aspiring poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is sent to a quiet provincial court for discipline. There, he becomes captivated by Lotte, a young woman betrothed to someone else.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 100
The RobberMovie · 2010 · 96m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeA top marathon runner secretly lives a life as a bank robber, making as many as three heists a day and using his speed to evade the police.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
