119 German Films: A World Cinema Collection
118 titles
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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 - 2
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 - 3
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 - 4
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 - 5
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 - 6
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 - 7
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 - 8
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 - 9
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 - 10
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 - 11
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 - 12
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 - 13
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 - 14
(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 - 15
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 - 16
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 - 17
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 - 18
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 - 19
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 - 20
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 - 21
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 - 22
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 - 23
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 - 24
The Marriage of Maria BraunMovie · 1979 · 120m · DramaBefore he became the legendary Indiana Jones, he was a curious boy with a lifelong love of history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, young Indy joined his family on exciting expeditions around the world at just nine years old. These adventures ignited his passion for archaeology and developed his skills in problem-solving, survival, and resourcefulness.
During World War I, Indiana Jones experienced the harsh realities of the European battlefields. This experience strengthened his character and prepared him for the fearless archaeologist he would become. He met many notable people – activists, intellectuals, soldiers, and artists – who became his mentors, rivals, and sources of inspiration, all contributing to the world he would later help protect through his archaeological work.
The film explores Indiana Jones's early life, showing his personal development and the important historical events of his time. It offers a new look at how an adventurous hero was made, revealing the people and events that shaped our world.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 25
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 - 26
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 - 27
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 - 28
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 - 29
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 - 30
Death Is My TradeMovie · 1977 · 145mThis is a biography of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of the Auschwitz concentration camp.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.4 - 31
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 - 32
When the Evening Bells RingMovie · 1951 · 88mTo appease her parents, a woman marries a wealthy landowner, forsaking the man she loves and who is the father of her unborn child. After a few years, the child's father unexpectedly returns.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.0 - 33
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 - 34
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 - 35
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 - 36
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 - 37
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 - 38
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 - 39
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 - 40
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 - 41
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 - 42
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 - 43
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 - 44
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 - 45
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 - 46
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 - 47
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 - 48
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 - 49
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 - 50
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 - 51
The Legend of RitaMovie · 2000 · 102mRita Vogt, a radical West German terrorist, gives up her revolutionary activities and starts a new life in East Germany, given to her by the secret service under a false identity. She lives in constant fear of exposure, a fear that is ultimately realized following German reunification.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.8 - 52
Nosferatu the VampyreMovie · 1979 · 107m · Drama, HorrorA driven real estate agent travels to Transylvania to finalize a purchase of a distinctive property. Invited by the mysterious Count Dracula, he leaves his wife and familiar life for an uncertain journey. In the shadowy forests and castles of Transylvania, the agent navigates his dealings with the Count while grappling with the unknown. The film explores themes of personal growth, loyalty, and the mysteries of a foreign world as he confronts both danger and opportunity.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 53
No Place to GoMovie · 2000 · 110mIn 1989, following the fall of the Berlin Wall, renowned author Flanders journeys to Berlin. She is profoundly saddened by the celebrations, having viewed the former communist state as a positive force now lost. Unable to find anyone who shares her perspective amidst the widespread joy, she returns to Munich. After encountering various people, both familiar and new, it becomes apparent that she faces a seemingly insurmountable path forward.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.8 - 54
Schultze Gets the BluesMovie · 2003 · 114m · Comedy, Drama, MusicSchultze, an accordion player recently out of a job, experiences a surprising shift in his musical perspective when he's asked to perform at the local music club's 50th-anniversary celebration.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 55
Winter SleepersMovie · 1997 · 120m · Drama, RomanceIn a charming mountain village, translator Rebecca and ski instructor Marco live together with their friend Laura, a local nurse. Their lives are disrupted when cinema projectionist Rene steals Marco's car and crashes into Theo, whose young daughter enters a coma. Rene, experiencing memory loss from the crash, develops a relationship with Laura, unaware of the harm he caused. As Marco searches for his car and confronts Rene, the lives of these people become entangled, revealing secrets, betrayals, and opportunities for change.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 56
Fox and His FriendsMovie · 1975 · 125m · DramaFox, a former circus acrobat, wins a lottery jackpot and suddenly finds himself in a world he doesn't know. With half a million Danish Kroner, he dreams of a luxurious life and moving up in society, leaving his working-class background behind for middle-class comforts. But this change is harder than he imagined. Fox struggles to reconcile his old life with his new status, facing the difficulties of trying to reinvent himself. The film explores themes of social change, identity, and the challenges of balancing the past with hopes for a better future.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 57
Four MinutesMovie · 2006 · 112mJenny is young, and feels her life is finished. She committed a murder, and wouldn't hesitate to do it again. An 80-year-old piano teacher learns Jenny’s secret, her capacity for violence, and her hidden aspirations. The teacher then resolves to mold her student into the exceptional musician she once was.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 58
The EdukatorsMovie · 2004 · 127m · Drama, ComedyThree activists devise a kidnapping plan after unexpectedly encountering a businessman at his house.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 59
The NeverEnding StoryMovie · 1984 · 97m · Adventure, Fantasy, FamilyA shy schoolboy finds escape in his school's attic and discovers a magical book called 'The Neverending Story.' The book takes him to Fantasia, a fantastical world facing destruction from a mysterious force called The Nothing. He follows the story of Atreyu, a brave young warrior who, with the help of a luck dragon named Falkor, must save Fantasia. Their dangerous journey explores themes of courage, loss, and imagination, revealing that Atreyu's strength holds the key to saving both Fantasia and the boy's own world.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 60
Germany in AutumnMovie · 1978 · 123mNine fictional documentaries and films capture the atmosphere of late 1970s Germany, focusing on the two months in 1977 when a businessman was kidnapped by the RAF (Red Army Faction). The kidnapping was intended to arrange the release of the RAF's original leaders, also known as the Baader-Meinhof group.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2 - 61
Europa EuropaMovie · 1990 · 112m · History, Drama, WarDuring the early years of World War II, a young Jewish boy is forcibly separated from his family and chooses to hide his identity by posing as an orphaned German child to survive.
He successfully integrates into Nazi society, becoming a member of the Hitler Youth and gaining insight into the workings of the oppressive regime. He must carefully maintain his disguise while suppressing memories of his past.
This intense drama explores themes of identity, strength, and the desperate measures people take to protect themselves during a time of great darkness and fear. It follows a young boy's extraordinary journey as he faces unimaginable hardships in a world of danger and deception.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 62
The Blue LightMovie · 1932 · 83mJunta is the only woman in the ruling council capable of scaling a treacherous mountain. Because of this ability, the villagers consider her a witch.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9 - 63
The HarmonistsMovie · 1997 · 126m · Music, Drama"Comedian Harmonists" tells the story of a famous German vocal group formed in 1927. The film follows their journey to success and the music that united them, all while highlighting the growing threat of the Nazi regime. By 1934, three of the sextet's members were targeted because of their Jewish ancestry, leading to the group's disbandment. The movie explores themes of friendship, artistic dedication, and the impact of political persecution, showing how music became a powerful force for freedom and resistance during a difficult time.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 64
The Baader Meinhof ComplexMovie · 2008 · 149m · Action, Crime, DramaAfter witnessing the brutal suppression of a protest in Iran, journalist Ulrike Meinhof leaves her family and marriage to join radical anarchist Andreas Baader. Alongside Baader and his girlfriend Gudrun Ensslin, she becomes involved with the violent Red Faction Army. The group carries out numerous terrorist attacks, aiming to destabilize what they perceive as a growing fascist regime.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 65
My Father Is ComingMovie · 1991 · 82mVicky, a struggling actress and waitress who is also a lesbian, faces chaos when her father visits from Germany. She has misrepresented her life to him, claiming to be a successful actress and married. To maintain the lie, she asks a gay friend to pose as her husband. The film uses a diverse cast of characters – including gay, lesbian, straight, and transsexual individuals – to offer a humorous and heartfelt look at family relationships and sexuality.IMDb 5.9TMDB 4.6 - 66
The Third GenerationMovie · 1979 · 110m · Comedy, Crime, DramaThe film is an anarchic satire depicting the chaotic world of guerrilla terrorism. A group of idealistic leftist radicals are unexpectedly manipulated by the West German government. This unlikely partnership allows the regime to strengthen its authoritarian control, escalating the chaos. As the radicals struggle with their forced involvement in the government's plans, they must confront the complexities of power, resistance, and who they are. The movie explores themes of manipulation, ideological clashes, and political performance, offering a sharp look at control and rebellion.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.9 - 67
Scream of StoneMovie · 1991 · 105mTwo world-renowned climbers – a seasoned mountaineer and a sport climbing champion – and a journalist named Ivan make a wager on who is the superior climber. The mountaineer, Roger, confidently asserts that the sport climber, Martin, couldn't handle a traditional expedition, despite Martin recently winning the indoor world championship (shown in the film's opening). They decide to climb Cerro Torre, a notoriously challenging mountain in Patagonia, on the border between Argentina and Chile, known for its harsh weather.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 68
FriendsMovie · 2000 · 100mNils, Tayfun, and Caro were inseparable as kids. But their friendship fractured when romantic feelings entered the picture. Nils is now a police officer and unexpectedly encounters Tayfun during a raid. Haunted by their shared past, Nils helps Tayfun conceal drugs, leading to his arrest. Nils is then forced to choose between suspension or a dangerous undercover assignment: investigating Tayfun, who is now with Caro. It's a conflict between duty, personal feelings, and a profound betrayal.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.3 - 69
When the White Lilacs Bloom AgainMovie · 1953 · 97mWilly and Therese separate. Willy leaves town and returns years later as a famous singer. Therese is engaged to her best friend, Peter. Willy is unaware that he and Therese have a teenage daughter.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.4 - 70
And Along Come TouristsMovie · 2007 · 85mSven arrives at the Auschwitz memorial for his mandatory national service. He faces hostility from several people: Stanislaw Krzeminski, an 85-year-old former concentration camp inmate, and Krzysztof Lanuszewski, the brother of a woman Sven once loved, Ania. His supervisor, Herold, the memorial's manager, offers little assistance with Sven's adjustment. As issues arise, Sven discovers he is becoming increasingly drawn into the situation.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 71
A Virus Knows No MoralsMovie · 1986 · 82mDuring the height of the AIDS crisis, a group of nurses on the night shift make morbid bets about which patient will die next. The owner of a gay bathhouse contracts Kaposi's Sarcoma but prioritizes business. A dying man, targeted by a reporter, intentionally exposes her to a contaminated syringe. The government establishes a quarantine zone known as "Hell Gay Land." Meanwhile, gay activists engage in terrorist acts, culminating in the kidnapping of the Minister of Health.IMDb 5.5TMDB 3.8 - 72
City of Lost SoulsMovie · 1983 · 91mThis film follows a group of unconventional American cabaret performers who relocate to Berlin in search of acceptance and artistic freedom. They seek a place where they can fully express their creativity, leading to a life filled with vibrant, often scandalous experiences.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.0 - 73
Happy Birthday, Türke!Movie · 1992 · 109mPrivate detective Kemal Kayankaya takes on a case from Ilter, a Turkish woman searching for her husband, Amend, who disappeared after her father, Vassif, died. As Kemal investigates, he uncovers hidden secrets within Ilter's family and their connections to both organized crime and the police. The investigation also prompts Kemal, raised in a German foster family, to confront and embrace his own Turkish heritage.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.0 - 74
Brothers and SistersMovie · 1997 · 82mThomas Arslan's second film in a Berlin trilogy is a deliberate, character-driven look at German-Turkish youth living in Berlin's Kreuzberg neighborhood. It follows the daily lives, family tensions, aspirations, and setbacks of three siblings as they wander aimlessly through the streets of Kreuzberg.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 75
In Those DaysMovie · 1947 · 111mThis is the story of a car, and the lives of its seven owners, spanning the years of the Third Reich.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 76
The Best Place to BeMovie · 2008 · 90mFresh out of school, best friends Kati and Jo set off on a southbound world trip in Kati's purple Benz. Kati had hesitated about the journey, as the man she loved returned to their hometown of Tandern just before they left. Their travels take them over the Brenner Pass, where their car breaks down. Adding to the turmoil, Kati learns her grandfather is dying, and she begins to want to go home, testing the strength of her friendship with Jo.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 77
Good Bye, Lenin!Movie · 2003 · 121m · Comedy, DramaAs the Berlin Wall falls, Alex Kerner's mother awakens from a coma. A staunch communist, she must now be shielded from the news of the wall's collapse to prevent a potentially fatal heart attack.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 78
People on SundayMovie · 1930 · 74m · DramaSet in 1930s Berlin, this experimental silent film was made by amateur filmmakers with a very limited budget. It offers a raw and charming look at life during a turbulent period in the city's history, providing a unique glimpse into the past. The film was written and directed by two young filmmakers who later achieved significant recognition: Billy Wilder and Fred Zinnemann. Using authentic scenes and straightforward storytelling, it presents a world that feels both strangely unfamiliar and surprisingly relatable.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 79
Mailman MuellerMovie · 1953 · 95mTitus Müller, a postman in a quiet town, receives a letter that unexpectedly alters his ordinary life.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.5 - 80
Head-OnMovie · 2004 · 117m · Drama, RomanceTo escape her family, a young woman arranges a marriage with a forty-year-old addict. This arrangement unexpectedly sparks a passionate and jealous love.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 81Short Cut to HollywoodMovie · 2009 · 94mJohannes Friederich Selinger, in his mid-30s, has experienced nothing but failure. His only motivation is the ambition to achieve fame, and he's now willing to do anything to get it. He and two friends travel to the USA with a plan to create a groundbreaking film, starring himself under the new name John Frederik Salinger. His audacious idea: to progressively sacrifice body parts on camera, hoping to captivate the public.IMDb 5.9TMDB 2.5
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The White Hell of Pitz PaluMovie · 1929 · 150mDriven by the loss of his wife, who disappeared during their honeymoon, Dr. Johannes Krafft repeatedly ascends a treacherous 12,000-foot mountain in her search. He is joined in this perilous climb by another couple.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 83
The Tiger of EschnapurMovie · 1959 · 101m · Adventure, Drama, RomanceA German architect in Eschnapur becomes entangled in the world of royal politics and romantic longing. He gains the Maharajah's favor by saving the life of the Maharajah's favorite temple dancer, leading to an unexpected friendship. As the architect and dancer fall in love, they unknowingly challenge the Maharajah's authority, forcing them to choose between their loyalty to each other and their position within the court. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and tradition set against the vibrant backdrop of an Indian kingdom.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 84
WaxworksMovie · 1924 · 83m · Fantasy, HorrorA poet gets a unique job crafting stories about historical figures – Harun al Raschid, Ivan the Terrible, and Jack the Ripper – for an unusual wax museum inside a lively circus. The museum's owner encourages the poet to let their imagination run wild.
While writing fantastical tales, the poet becomes captivated by Eva, the owner’s charming daughter. Their shared stories spark a growing connection as they explore love and desire.
This visually rich film examines how stories shape our perception of reality and celebrates the power of human connection. Blending history, fantasy, and romance, it's a captivating journey into the wonders and challenges of love and imagination.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 85
Berlin-Buenos AiresMovie · 2008 · 91mA story about choices. Between Berlin and Buenos Aires. Between love, life, and family.IMDb 6.2TMDB 2.7 - 86
It Is Not the Homosexual Who Is Perverse, But the Society in Which He LivesMovie · 1971 · 67mDaniel, a young man who moves to the city from the countryside, explores various gay subcultures. His journey begins in Berlin when he meets Clemens, a blonde man who invites him home and offers him a place to live. Daniel quickly falls in love with Clemens, and they attempt to replicate a conventional married life. However, after four months, Daniel is approached by a wealthy older man who persuades him to relocate to his villa. There, Daniel encounters a group of affluent older gay men with refined tastes in art and music, who shower him with attention.IMDb 6.6TMDB 4.9 - 87
Madame X – An Absolute RulerMovie · 1978 · 141mMadame X, a notorious pirate, places an advertisement inviting women to leave their ordinary lives for gold, love, and adventure aboard her ship, the Orlando. A diverse group of women – a housewife, a diva, and an artist – answer the call, seeking change. Their journey quickly turns dangerous as they face Madame X's cruel and sexually charged games.IMDb 5.2TMDB 3.8 - 88
Perfume: The Story of a MurdererMovie · 2006 · 147m · Crime, Fantasy, DramaIn 18th century Paris, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille is born with an extraordinary sense of smell. He becomes a master perfumer, crafting unparalleled fragrances. But driven by an obsessive quest for the perfect scent, his pursuit leads him down a dark and dangerous path as he seeks to capture and preserve the very essence of life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 89
Different from the OthersMovie · 1919 · 51m · DramaThis intense drama tells the story of a famous musician, played by Conrad Veidt, whose personal life is exposed when he's blackmailed because of his sexuality. The film follows his experience as he's put on trial and convicted under Germany's §175 law. It’s a powerful look at one man's fight and a strong argument against laws that unfairly punish people for who they are. The film deeply moves audiences and prompts reflection on the need for societal change.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 90
The Adventures of Prince AchmedMovie · 1926 · 66m · Animation, Adventure, FantasyThis adaptation of an Arabian Nights story follows a clever sorcerer who plots Prince Achmed's death with a trick. The unsuspecting prince is tricked into riding a magical flying horse on a dangerous journey intended to kill him. But Prince Achmed fights back, using the horse's power to thwart the sorcerer's plan and experience a series of amazing adventures.
The film features vividly imagined worlds, fantastical creatures, and exciting challenges as Prince Achmed overcomes unexpected obstacles. It’s a story about courage, cleverness, and strength, celebrating the spirit of adventure and how resourceful people can overcome hardship.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 91
The Indian TombMovie · 1959 · 97m · Adventure, Drama, RomanceIn a land steeped in tradition, Seetha and Harold Berger are rescued from the desert and brought to a village. However, when their host breaks sacred customs, they become targets of Prince Ramigani. As Ramigani schemes to control Seetha, Harold must fight to free her. Meanwhile, Irene and Walter Rhode grow wary of Maharaja Chandra's plans and Harold's future. Seetha is forced into a marriage with Ramigani to incite religious conflict and gain an alliance. The story unfolds as a compelling tale of love, betrayal, and courage, with Harold determined to save his wife from those who wish to use her.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 92
The Golem: How He Came Into the WorldMovie · 1920 · 76m · Fantasy, HorrorIn 1500s Prague, a close-knit Jewish community lives under constant threat from other religious groups. Facing this tension, Rabbi Judah Loew undertakes an unusual project to protect his people: he creates the Golem, a giant figure made of clay brought to life through ancient rituals and secret knowledge.
The Golem becomes a towering presence in the city, acting as a silent protector and representing the Jewish community’s strength against hardship. As it moves through the complicated world of 16th-century Prague, the creature’s existence raises questions about faith, power, and what it means to be human, while also challenging the established order.
This historical drama explores the beliefs in magic alongside political schemes and religious passion of 16th-century Europe. Following Rabbi Loew and his clay creation, the film examines themes of community, persecution, and the sacrifices people make to safeguard those they care about and their beliefs.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 93
The ArchitectsMovie · 1990 · 102mArchitect Daniel Brenner, in his late thirties, gets his first big break: designing a cultural center in an East Berlin satellite town. He insists on working with a team of his own choosing, reuniting with former colleagues and friends who had pursued other careers due to limitations in the GDR. Together, they create a design meant to be more engaging than typical government buildings. But their ambitious plans are repeatedly blocked by conservative superiors. As frustration mounts, Daniel struggles to balance his career with his family life, as his wife Wanda plans to move to West Germany.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 94
The Murderers Are Among UsMovie · 1946 · 81m · Drama, Romance, ThrillerAfter World War II, Susanne, a young woman who survived a concentration camp, returns home to find an ex-soldier living in her apartment. Both struggling with the war's memories and its lasting effects, they form an unexpected bond as they try to rebuild their lives.
The film examines resilience, forgiveness, and the strength of the human spirit to overcome immense hardship. As Susanne and the ex-soldier confront their shared trauma, they learn that healing involves accepting the past and creating a future together. The story explores the complexities of human connection and the importance of empathy.
With a moving story that blends tender moments with honest emotion, the movie portrays life after WWII, focusing on the difficulties faced by those who carry the marks of war. Their journey toward hope and redemption shows that even in the darkest times, healing is possible.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 95
Somewhere in BerlinMovie · 1946 · 80mPost-World War II, Berlin is devastated. For Gustav, Willi, and their friends, the ruins become a thrilling, perilous playground. The rubble is especially a way for Gustav to fill time while he waits for his father to return from a prisoner-of-war camp. Then, a stranger arrives, appearing lost and without hope.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.8 - 96
Mädchen in UniformMovie · 1931 · 88m · Drama, RomanceAt an all-girls boarding school, a shy teenager experiences the complexities of growing up and falling in love. While receiving guidance from a teacher, her world opens up to new possibilities, but also exposes the dangers of their relationship. This moving story about coming of age examines the delicate balance between attraction and proper behavior, exploring the human need for connection within traditional settings. The film looks at themes of vulnerability, desire, and the lengths people will go to find understanding and acceptance through an intimate relationship.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 97
Lola and Billy the KidMovie · 1999 · 93m · DramaThis drama follows Murat, a young Turkish man living in Berlin's Turkish community, as he decides to come out to his family and reveal his identity. Unbeknownst to him, his family holds secrets that complicate this already difficult situation.
The film examines acceptance, hidden truths, and family relationships through the interwoven lives of Murat and his relatives. Against the backdrop of multicultural Berlin, the story unfolds, revealing layers of deception and prejudice and exploring the complexities of human connection. With moments of both joy and pain, the audience witnesses Murat's journey to self-acceptance and his family's struggle with their own realities.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 98
The Ninth DayMovie · 2004 · 98mIn WWII, Father Henri Kremer is unexpectedly released from the concentration camp at Dachau. He is granted nine days to return to his home in Luxembourg, where he must confront a determined Gestapo chief who will challenge his beliefs.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 99
The Raspberry ReichMovie · 2004 · 91m · Drama, Action, ComedyGudrun leads an amateur German terrorist group modeled after the 1970s Red Army Faction. She kidnaps the son of a wealthy industrialist, hoping to use him to negotiate with his father for leftist demands. Between reciting revolutionary slogans (even during intimate moments), Gudrun tries to persuade her male followers that their heterosexuality is a collective delusion and they should abandon it.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.4 - 100
Sky Without StarsMovie · 1955 · 108mIn East Germany, Anna works in a factory while her young son Jochen lives with his grandparents in the West. Determined to have Jochen with her, Anna takes him across the border. During the journey, she encounters Carl, who assists her with the crossing, and they develop a romantic relationship.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9
