8 Hilarious German Shows & Movies for Intermediate Learners

Introduction

Whether you're a dedicated language learner or simply an avid entertainment enthusiast, immersing yourself in German media is a highly effective way to improve your comprehension skills while indulging in captivating stories and side-splitting comedy. This curated list of 8 German shows and movies, meticulously selected for intermediate learners, offers a perfect blend of entertainment and linguistic enrichment. Get ready to laugh out loud, expand your vocabulary, and take your German proficiency to the next level!

1. Stromberg: The Office's German Cousin

Picture The Office, but set in a German workplace. Stromberg is a hilarious mockumentary that follows the misadventures of Bernd Stromberg, a clueless and arrogant office manager. With its relatable characters and sharp wit, Stromberg will keep you entertained while introducing you to common German workplace jargon.

2. Extra 3: Satirical News at Its Finest

For those with a penchant for political satire, Extra 3 is an absolute must-watch. This satirical news show mercilessly pokes fun at German and international politics, featuring clever sketches and commentary that will have you laughing and learning simultaneously.

3. Der Tatortreiniger: Cleaning Up Crime Scenes with Humor

Imagine a crime scene cleaner with a dark sense of humor. Der Tatortreiniger follows Heiko 'Schotty' Schotte, a master of his craft who always manages to find a silver lining in even the grimmest of situations. This quirky comedy-drama offers a unique perspective on life and death while introducing you to specialized vocabulary related to crime and forensics.

4. Das Boot: A Thrilling Submarine Adventure

Immerse yourself in the claustrophobic world of a German submarine during World War II with Das Boot. This gripping war drama follows the crew as they embark on a perilous mission, testing their limits both physically and emotionally. With its intense action sequences and complex characters, Das Boot will captivate you while exposing you to military terminology and historical context.

5. Good Bye, Lenin!: A Touching Tale of East German Nostalgia

This heartwarming comedy-drama tells the story of Alex, a young man who tries to hide the fall of the Berlin Wall from his fragile mother, who has been in a coma since 1989. As Alex recreates the illusion of a communist East Germany, Good Bye, Lenin! offers a humorous and poignant look at the complexities of German history and identity.

6. Die Fälscher: The Counterfeiters

Set during World War II, Die Fälscher tells the true story of a group of Jewish prisoners who are forced to forge British currency under the watchful eye of the Nazis. As the inmates risk their lives for the greater good, this gripping drama explores themes of survival, resilience, and the power of human connection.

7. Berlin Alexanderplatz: A Modern Epic

This contemporary drama follows Francis, an African refugee who arrives in Berlin and struggles to navigate the complexities of life in a foreign land. Berlin Alexanderplatz is a thought-provoking exploration of identity, racism, and the search for a place to belong.

8. Morden im Norden: Crime and Punishment in Northern Germany

For fans of crime procedurals, Morden im Norden offers a thrilling glimpse into crime-solving in the picturesque coastal region of Northern Germany. Follow the detectives as they investigate murders and unravel dark secrets, exposing you to a wide range of crime-related vocabulary.

Benefits of Watching German Shows and Movies

1. Enhanced Comprehension: Immersive exposure to authentic German dialogue significantly improves your listening and comprehension skills.
2. Vocabulary Expansion: You're exposed to a treasure trove of new words and expressions, enriching your vocabulary and enhancing your ability to communicate in German.
3. Cultural Insights: These shows and movies provide a fascinating window into German culture, customs, and societal norms.
4. Improved Pronunciation: By listening to native speakers, you can refine your pronunciation and develop a more authentic German accent.

Tips for Intermediate Learners

1. Watch with Subtitles Initially: To ease your transition, start by watching with German subtitles. Gradually reduce your reliance on them as your proficiency grows.
2. Look for Context Clues: Pay attention to the context and try to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words and phrases.
3. Rewind and Repeat: Don't be afraid to rewind and replay scenes to catch missed details or improve your understanding.
4. Consult a Dictionary or Translator: Keep a dictionary or translation app handy to quickly look up unfamiliar words.
5. Immerse Yourself: Surround yourself with German media, including music, podcasts, and books, to reinforce your learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I learn German effectively just by watching movies and shows? While watching German media is an excellent supplement to your learning, it's not a substitute for structured language instruction.
2. Which shows and movies are suitable for beginners? For beginners, consider starting with shows like Extra 3 and Der Tatortreiniger, which use simpler language and slower pacing.
3. How can I find German shows and movies with subtitles? Many streaming platforms, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime, offer a wide selection of German content with subtitles.
4. Is it better to watch German shows or movies? Both shows and movies offer benefits. Shows provide consistency and allow you to follow characters over time, while movies offer a more comprehensive storyline.
5. How often should I watch German movies and shows? Aim to watch at least 30 minutes of German media daily to see significant progress.
6. Can I learn German without subtitles? It's not recommended to rely solely on unsubtitled German media as a beginner. Introduce subtitles and gradually reduce them as you become more proficient.
7. How can I practice speaking while watching German shows and movies? Repeat phrases, narrate what's happening, or engage in discussions about the characters and plot.
8. What are some resources for learning German in addition to watching movies and shows? Consider using language learning apps, taking classes, or reading German books and articles to complement your viewing experience.

Table 1: German Shows and Movies for Intermediate Learners

Table 2: Skills Developed by Watching German Shows and Movies

Table 3: Tips for Watching German Shows and Movies as an Intermediate Learner

Table 4: Frequently Asked Questions about Watching German Shows and Movies