If any industry that produces quality films in Europe, the King lies in tough competition between Germany, France, and Spain for sure. I personally enjoy German cinema for its deep, perspective-based content. On the topic, I am bringing you their best five original films on Netflix. Subtle disclaimer, watch only in the German language, worth it.
1. All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
The film is an adaptation of the popular Remarque’s novel “Im Westen nichts Neues”. It tells the story of young teen Paul Baumer, aka Felix Kammerer, who gets enlisted in the German Army during the horrendous World War I. Therefore portrays the brutal truths of warfare, lost lives, its effect on living innocent families and all. The film’s raw nature and excellent character development amidst war make it a masterstroke.
IMDb: 7.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 90% My Rating: 4.8/5
2. The White Ribbon (2009)
Das weiße Band is a mystery story set in 1913s Germany. The film runs on flashbacks of an old tailor, who describes how their lives were dominated by the village’s self-claimed figures. It was ruled by the Pastor, Baron, and Doctor. They instilled brutal violence and exploited the children, leading them to mirror those actions and plague the village. This film is a clear window into Europe’s dictatorship and people’s retaliation against it.
IMDb: 7.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 85% My Rating: 4.6/5
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3. Victoria (2015)
Victoria, aka Laia Costa, quits her old life as a professional piano player in Spain & moves to Berlin on vacation. Her flirtationship with a local guy at the nightclub turns deadly as they get her involved in a potential bank robbery situation. Is this robbery going to kill her or turn her a new leaf? Curious! Stream this right away on Netflix. This highly intense thriller is a good example of how no one ever knows how life turns out and why.
IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% My Rating: 4.2/5
4. Run Lola Run (1998)
This film is a unique concept that you’ve never seen, ever! “Lola Rennt”, directed by Tom Tykwer, follows a young girl who has only 20 minutes to bring 100,000 DM to save her boyfriend, otherwise he will go dire consequences. This time-ticking thriller goes over her peculiar encounters and decisions to save him from tyrants. This is surprisingly a very good watch & keeps you addicted to the screen for its increasing story intensity.Â
IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 98% My Rating: 4.4/5
5. Isi & Ossi (2020)
Coming from different backgrounds, Isi is a billionaire’s heir, & Ossi is a struggling boxer, raised by his single mom. They form a namesake relationship, trying to fulfill personal dreams. She wants to convince her parents to become a chef, and he needs money. But when stars strike their sparks, the glitter of love and affection. Will they soon turn from reel to real couple, or will they pretend to hide feelings? forms the rest of the film.
IMDb: 6.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 71% My Rating: 4.1/5
Conclusion
This list is a mix of popular and noteworthy German films to binge now on Netflix. It has various genres like warzone, thriller, mystery, romance, vengeance, etc. So what’s your first pick to watch?
Written by – Meghana Pinninti