20 German Intermediate Movies on Netflix

Are you a language enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in German culture while improving your language skills?

Watching German language movies on Netflix can be an enjoyable and effective way to achieve this. With a plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose where to start.

To help you out, I've curated a list of the best German movies for intermediate learners on Netflix. These films offer not only entertainment but also valuable insights into German history, culture, and society. Plus, I'll share some additional options you can explore with Lingopie to further enhance your learning experience!

10 Movies That Are Perfect for Learning German (Available on Lingopie!)

If you’re learning German, movies are one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to immerse yourself in the language. Not only do they expose you to authentic dialogue, but they also provide cultural insights and context that textbooks often miss. Lingopie offers a fantastic selection of German films, and here’s why these 10 titles are particularly great for language learners. I’ve also included personalized tips for each film to help you get the most out of your viewing experience.

1. Isi & Ossi

This lighthearted romantic comedy follows Isi, a wealthy heiress, and Ossi, a struggling boxer, as they navigate their differences and fall in love. The dialogue is simple, conversational, and full of everyday phrases, making it perfect for beginners and lower intermediate learners.
Tip: Focus on the playful banter between the two leads to pick up casual German expressions. The film’s modern setting also introduces you to contemporary slang and youth language.

2. Buba

A dark comedy about a small-time crook trying to escape his criminal past, Buba is packed with fast-paced, slang-heavy dialogue. It’s a great choice for intermediate learners who want to dive into informal German.
Tip: Pay close attention to the humor and sarcasm, which are key elements of German comedy. The film’s quirky characters and absurd situations make it a fun way to learn colloquial expressions.

3. Into the Beat - Dein Herz tanzt

This inspiring drama tells the story of a young ballerina who discovers her passion for hip-hop dancing. The film combines music and emotion, with clear pronunciation and heartfelt dialogue.
Tip: Use the musical scenes to practice listening and repeating lyrics or phrases. The film’s themes of self-discovery and following your dreams make it both motivating and engaging.

4. Rumspringa

Set in the Amish community, Rumspringa explores the tradition of allowing young adults to experience the outside world before deciding whether to commit to their faith. The dialogue is simple and clear, making it accessible for beginners.
Tip: Focus on the straightforward conversations to build your confidence. The film also offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique cultural perspective.

5. Was wir

This heartfelt drama follows a couple struggling with infertility while on vacation in Sardinia. The dialogue is slower and more deliberate, making it ideal for improving comprehension.
Tip: Use the emotional scenes to practice understanding tone and context. The film’s introspective nature also introduces you to more nuanced vocabulary.

6. Die Liebeskümmerer

A quirky comedy about two men who start a business helping people get over their exes, Die Liebeskümmerer is full of witty dialogue and humor.
Tip: Repeat funny lines to practice intonation and delivery. The film’s playful tone is a great way to learn how Germans use sarcasm and wit in everyday conversation.

7. Prey

This intense thriller follows a group of friends on a hunting trip that takes a deadly turn. The suspenseful dialogue and fast-paced plot make it ideal for advanced learners.
Tip: Challenge yourself with the rapid speech and complex vocabulary. The film’s tense atmosphere will keep you engaged while you practice understanding spoken German under pressure.

8. Kidnapping Stella

A gripping thriller about two men who kidnap a young woman, only to have their plan unravel, Kidnapping Stella features intense, quick dialogue.
Tip: Use the suspenseful scenes to practice understanding fast speech. The film’s twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat while you learn.

9. Hammerharte Jungs

Two best friends navigate the challenges of high school while struggling with awkward new desires and their inconvenient feelings for each other.
Tip: Note how characters from different regions pronounce words differently. The film’s humor and camaraderie make it a fun way to learn about German culture.

10. Blood & Gold

Set during World War II, this historical drama tells the story of a soldier searching for his daughter while evading Nazi forces. The film’s rich, descriptive language is perfect for expanding your vocabulary.
Tip: Focus on the narrative-driven dialogue to learn new, sophisticated terms. The film’s historical setting also provides valuable cultural and historical context.

How to Learn German with the Lingopie Extension:

Learning German doesn’t have to be difficult—why not turn your favorite TV shows and movies into a language-learning tool? The Lingopie Extension transforms streaming platforms like Netflix into an interactive experience, helping you build vocabulary, improve listening skills, and understand natural speech while enjoying great content.
With dual-language subtitles, clickable translations, and automatic word-saving, Lingopie makes it easy to learn in context. Watch familiar shows in German, use the double-subtitle strategy, and review saved words to reinforce what you’ve learned. Unlike standard subtitles, Lingopie helps you actively engage with the language, making your learning more effective.

Ready to boost your German skills? Try the Lingopie Extension today and make every movie a language lesson!

Related:

How To Learn A Language With The Lingopie Extension

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10 Intermediate Movies to Learn German On Netflix

1. "Lola Rennt" ("Run Lola Run")

Released in 1998, "Lola Rennt" is a German classic that offers an exhilarating cinematic experience while providing a glimpse into the Berlinerisch dialect.

This German film follows Lola, who embarks on a frantic quest to find 100,000 German marks within twenty minutes to save her boyfriend's life.

With her boyfriend's fate hanging in the balance, Lola navigates through the streets of Berlin in three different "runs," each with its unique twists and turns.

This innovative narrative structure not only keeps viewers engaged but also offers insights into contemporary German society and urban life.

2. "Goodbye Lenin!"

For those in the mood for a comedy intertwined with historical drama, "Goodbye Lenin!" is a must-watch. Set in 1989 in East Germany, the film revolves around Alex, whose mother falls into a coma shortly before the fall of the Berlin Wall.

When she awakens months later, right after the Berlin Wall falls, Alex goes to great lengths to shield her from the shocking changes occurring in East Germany, including the proliferation of Western brands and the collapse of socialist ideals.

Through absurd yet endearing tactics, Alex endeavors to recreate a semblance of the old East Germany for his mother, leading to humorous and heartwarming moments that offer poignant reflections on German reunification.

This is often voted one of the best German movies for learners and those interested in German history.

3. "Das Leben der Anderen" ("The Lives of Others")

Delving into the complexities of life in East Germany under the watchful eye of the Stasi, "Das Leben der Anderen" is a gripping drama and political thriller released in 2006.

This German film follows Stasi Captain Gerd Wiesler as he is tasked with spying on playwright Georg Dreyman and his associates.

However, as Wiesler becomes emotionally entangled in the lives of those he surveils, he begins to question the morality of his actions and the oppressive nature of the East German regime.

Through its compelling narrative and nuanced character portrayals, this German movie offers profound insights into the human cost of state surveillance and the quest for personal freedom and is one of the best German movies to watch for anyone, although for learners English subtitles might be a good idea here.

4. "Die Bitteren Tränen der Petra von Kant" ("The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant")

Rainer Werner Fassbinder's "Die Bitteren Tränen der Petra von Kant," released in 1972, is one of the memorable German movies of its decade, offering a captivating exploration of jealousy, madness, and domination.

This film serves as an excellent introduction to the works of Fassbinder, a prominent figure in the New German Cinema movement. Set within the confines of Petra von Kant's home, the film immerses viewers in the world of a fashion designer where psychological tension simmers beneath the surface.

Through its intimate setting and intense character dynamics, "Die Bitteren Tränen der Petra von Kant" offers a profound exploration of human relationships and the depths of desire and obsession.

5. "Soul Kitchen"

Set in the vibrant city of Hamburg, "Soul Kitchen" is a delightful comedy released in 2009 that centers around a local restaurant and its Greek-German owner, Zinos.

From financial woes to health issues, Zinos finds himself juggling multiple dilemmas, including a slipped disc and the return of his brother from prison.

Despite the seemingly disparate threads of the plot, "Soul Kitchen" masterfully integrates them into a cohesive and entertaining narrative, buoyed by a stellar cast and sharp humor.

The film also serves as a valuable resource for language acquisition, providing contextually relevant vocabulary in an engaging and relatable manner. Moreover, themes such as relationships and food offer accessible entry points for those learning German, enhancing comprehension and enjoyment of the film.

6. "Sissi"

Transitioning to a different genre, "Sissi" represents a classic Heimatfilm from 1955 that holds a special place in the hearts of many Germans.

Heimatfilms emerged in post-World War II Germany, romanticizing rural life and presenting simplistic narratives often revolving around themes of love and morality. "Sissi" epitomizes the quintessential Heimatfilm, offering a tale of romance, familial duty, and royal intrigue.

The film follows Princess Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sissi, alongside her sister Néné and the young Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, as they navigate the complexities of betrothals and love amidst familial obligations.

7. "Der Untergang" (The Downfall)

Downfall, also known as "Der Untergang," released in 2004, unfolds in the closing moments of Hitler's regime within Berlin's Führerbunker. This highly praised drama earned a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards.

Its controversial but fascinating portrayal of Adolf Hitler can make for uncomfortable viewing, as the film focuses its attention on the dictator as a complex, multilayered character. This makes it a great film to watch with fellow language learners.

8. “Paradies: Liebe” (Paradise: Love)

This unique film by Ulrich Seidl, released in 2013, offers a captivating narrative that follows a German woman embarking on a journey to Africa for sex tourism.

As she navigates her experiences in a Kenyan beach resort, the tourist encounters and falls for an African man. However, her perception shatters when she discovers that the affection she believed was genuine was, in fact, a ploy for financial gain.

As an Austrian production, "Paradise: Love" provides viewers with exposure to the Austrian dialect and delves into culturally-relevant themes.

The film explores the complexities of human relationships and sheds light on societal issues surrounding sex tourism in a way that is both thought-provoking and eye-opening.

"Paradise: Love" presents an opportunity for German learners to enhance their understanding of spoken language with native and non-native speakers, making it one of the best foreign films to watch for German learners.

9. Das weiße Band" ("The White Ribbon")

"Das weiße Band" ("The White Ribbon"), crafted by the acclaimed director Michael Haneke, presents a somber depiction of religion, authority, and violence unfolding in a small northern German town during the early 1910s.

Haneke's film offers a profound exploration of societal and familial dynamics, albeit through a dark lens that may prove challenging for some viewers. Nevertheless, for those seeking cinematic depth and emotional impact, "The White Ribbon" (2009) stands as a compelling choice.

The narrative navigates through a perplexing series of events that unsettle the tranquility of this small Protestant village, unraveling layers of tension and intrigue.

Moreover, "The White Ribbon" proves to be an invaluable resource for German students, as the actors deliver their lines with deliberate clarity and at a measured pace, making it one of the great German films to enjoy for those starting to learn German.

10. Die Welle ("The Wave")

"The Wave" (Die Welle) is a German film based on true events, delving into the perils of groupthink and conformity.

Following a high school teacher's experiment on totalitarianism, the narrative unfolds as students increasingly embrace the movement, spiraling out of control. Provocative and intense, it prompts reflection on authority, peer influence, and individuality in society.

Offering an immersive dive into the German language, "Die Welle" presents authentic dialogue and cultural nuances, facilitating deeper comprehension.

With its clear plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, the film fosters discussion and German language listening practice, making it one of the best German movies for learners of all levels.

FAQs about Watching German Movies on Netflix

Here, we provide answers to some of the most questions that people ask about German films and TV shows on Netflix as a way to learn German.

Are there any German films on Netflix?

Yes, Netflix offers a wide selection of German movies across various genres, providing ample opportunities for viewers to explore German language cinema and dialogue at their own pace.

This makes it a great platform for those who want to learn German in a fun and engaging way.

What series should I watch on Netflix Germany?

Some popular series on Netflix Germany include "Dark," a mind-bending sci-fi thriller, "Babylon Berlin," a gripping crime drama set in the 1920s, and "How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)," a dark comedy centered around a teen entrepreneur.

What can I learn about German culture and German cinema by watching a German movie?

Watching German movies offers insights into various aspects of German-speaking countries and their culture, including social norms, historical events, and regional dialects.

Watching movies can reveal the country's rich cultural heritage and explores universal themes such as love, identity, and societal issues, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of German society and its cinematic tradition.

Summing Up: Intermediate German Movies on Netflix

Watching movies on platforms like Netflix provides an enriching experience for language learners. From enhancing listening comprehension to exposing viewers to regional dialects, these films offer invaluable cultural insights.

Learning German as you watch German films and discuss them with fellow learners can make the whole experience a great introduction to both language and foreign cinema.

With the help of German subtitles, learners can further improve their language skills while enjoying some of the best German movies available.

To continue this immersive journey, sign up for 7 days with Lingopie, an excellent resource for watching German movies on Netflix and honing your language proficiency.