For those of you keen to develop your German language skills, watching German films and TV series, even with subtitles, can be an effective and entertaining way of familiarising your ears with spoken German, as well as providing insights into German culture.

Below you can see a list of popular German films and series that you can use for inspiration.  We encourage all of you to consider your own preferences in the hope of finding viewing options that best suit your own personal tastes, but this list should help you to get started.

Please note that some of these films and series may not be suitable for family viewing.

German TV Series

Dark – The disappearance of two children from the small, fictional town of Winden leads four families down a dark path of discovery. The sinful past of the town is exposed, as well as the secrets and fractured relationships that exist within these families. As the series unfolds, it becomes apparent that the central characters all have a connection to the town’s dark history. Full of twists and turns, this hugely successful science-fiction mystery series, which has supernatural elements, is the first German original series to be produced for Netflix.

How to Sell Drugs Online Fast – This coming-of-age comedy drama centres on a nerdy teen, who decides to start selling ecstasy online in an attempt to win back his ex-girlfriend, ends up becoming one of Europe’s most successful dealers. Available to watch on Netflix.

Das Letzte Wort – A comedy drama about a recently widowed woman who unexpectedly and suddenly finds her calling in professional eulogizing. This touching series is an exploration not only of grief and of death, but of living and of love. Also available to watch on Netflix.