Watching German shows to learn German is a great language learning technique, and with Netflix and other streaming services increasingly investing in foreign-language content, there's no better time to dive into the world of German shows. In recent years, German series have gained international attention for their exceptional storytelling, high production value, and memorable performances. In this article, we'll explore the top German-language dramas, must-watch comedies, and intriguing crime and thriller series available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and other streaming platforms.
📺 Why use German shows to learn German
With the rise of streaming platforms and accessibility to foreign language content, anyone looking to use German shows to learn German now has a vast array of options to choose from, ranging from popular German shows to documentaries and movies. But why is it beneficial to watch German shows when learning German?
- German shows expose you to authentic, natural language use in a way that textbooks or language classes can't.
- They help you improve your listening skills, as you are forced to keep up with the speed and intonation of native speakers.
- They provide you with context and visual aids to help you understand new words and phrases.
- Watching German shows helps you learn colloquial expressions and cultural nuances that are not typically taught in language classes.
- And finally, it can be a fun and engaging way to practice German, which can help you stay motivated and committed to your language learning journey.
💡 Worldify Tip - Subtitles: If you're worried about keeping up with the story, you can watch your favorite German show with subtitles—but make them German! It'll help you learn how German words (especially the long ones!) are supposed to be said, and to associate some of the complicated sounds with the letter pairings that go with them. Don't watch it in your native language, that's no fun!
🎭 Top Streaming German dramas
If you're a fan of captivating, thought-provoking stories set in dramatic worlds, these dramatic German shows on Netflix are sure to captivate you.
Dark
One of the most popular German shows to learn German, this mind-bending sci-fi drama explores the mysterious disappearances of children in the German town of Winden. As the search continues, the town's dark past and hidden connections are revealed, leading viewers through a labyrinth of time travel, conspiracy, and familial drama. Dark's intricate narrative and captivating performances make it a standout show among German-language dramas.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
Babylon Berlin
Set in the Weimar Republic era of 1929, Babylon Berlin follows police inspector Gereon Rath as he navigates the seedy underworld of organized crime and political extremism in Berlin. This critically acclaimed drama combines historical intrigue with a stunning visual style, making it one of the most bingeworthy German-language shows out there.
Stream it: Sky (DE)
Charité
This critically acclaimed historical drama takes viewers back to Berlin's Charité hospital in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With rich storytelling and exceptional performances, Charité explores the lives of scientists, doctors, and nurses who made groundbreaking discoveries and faced personal challenges during this period of medical advancement. This German show is a must-see for fans of history and drama alike.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
4 Blocks
Set in the Neukölln district of Berlin, the crime drama 4 Blocks revolves around the life of Ali "Toni" Hamady, the head of a powerful crime family. As Toni tries to leave behind his life of crime, he's pulled back in by a series of betrayals, family issues, and corruption. The compelling story and realistic portrayal of organized crime make 4 Blocks an enthralling German-language drama on Netflix.
Stream it: Amazon Prime (DE)
😁 Must-watch German-language comedies
If you prefer lighter, more humorous fare, these comedic German shows offer laughs and entertainment in equal measure. Comedies tend to be a bit easier to follow, if you're watching these German shows to learn German.
How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)
Inspired by true events, this dark comedy follows a high school student, Moritz Zimmerman, who believes the key to winning back his ex-girlfriend lies in starting an online drug empire. As his small-scale operation spirals out of control, Moritz and his friends are caught in a web of crime, drama, and hilarity. How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) is a fresh and entertaining take on the teen comedy genre, making it a must-watch for fans of dark humor.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
The Break-Up Man
The Break-Up Man, also known as "Schlussmacher," tells the story of Paul Voigt, a professional break-up agent who delivers the bad news for those too hesitant to end their relationships themselves. When a routine break-up goes awry, Paul finds himself saddled with an unwanted sidekick and a series of comedic misadventures. The Break-Up Man is a hilarious German-language comedy that offers a unique perspective on love and relationships.
Available to rent: Amazon Prime, Google Play, Apple TV
The Last Word
This bittersweet comedy-drama follows a recently widowed woman, Karla, who decides to become a professional eulogist after her husband's funeral. As Karla finds her voice and learns to navigate life as a widow, The Last Word delves into themes of grief, self-discovery, and the power of words. With heartfelt performances and a touching story, this German-language comedy is a hidden gem on Netflix.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
The Teacher
Stuck in a dead-end job as a high school teacher, Simon feels as though he's lost control of both his professional and personal life. However, after he discovers he has magical powers, his life takes a dramatic turn. The Teacher blends relatable humor with a touch of the supernatural to create a charming and engaging comedy series.
Stream it: Amazon Prime (DE)
🔍 Intriguing German-language crime and thriller series
Looking for something with a bit more suspense? These crime and thriller German series will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Dogs of Berlin
When a prominent German soccer player is found dead, two police officers with conflicting ideologies are thrust together in a race against time to solve the murder. As tensions rise, the officers navigate the politically charged world of organized crime, racial tension, and sports fanaticism in this gripping crime thriller. Dogs of Berlin showcases intense performances and complex storytelling, making it a compelling German show for fans of crime dramas.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
The Same Sky
Set in 1970s Berlin during the height of the Cold War, The Same Sky follows two families on opposite sides of the divided city. Interwoven with historical events, this suspenseful thriller exposes the human stories behind the Iron Curtain and the lengths people went to in pursuit of their goals. Its blend of espionage and family drama makes The Same Sky a fascinating watch for fans of historical thrillers.
Available to rent: Amazon Prime, Apple TV
Beat
Diving into the frenetic world of Berlin's nightlife, Beat follows a club promoter caught up in the dangerous underworld of human trafficking and political conspiracy. As he struggles to maintain his sanity, Beat is forced to navigate increasingly perilous situations, putting his life on the line to expose the truth. With a pulsating soundtrack and fast-paced storytelling, Beat is an electrifying German-language thriller.
Stream it: Amazon Prime (DE)
Parfum
Parfum is a German-language crime series that delves into the twisted depths of a serial killer's obsession with smell. Investigating a series of grisly murders, police profiler Nadja Simons and her team race against time to uncover the true identity of the "Parfum Killer." Combining a thrilling plot with a touch of psychological horror, Parfum is an exceptional crime thriller for fans of the genre.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
Criminal: Germany
As part of the international anthology series Criminal, Criminal: Germany puts the spotlight on the intense, high-stakes world of police interrogations. In three standalone episodes, this crime series showcases the tension-filled power struggles between detectives and suspects, revealing dark truths and secrets. With its minimalist setting and strong performances, Criminal: Germany is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and psychological thrillers.
Stream it: Netflix (DE)
No matter what you’re into, streaming platforms (and Netflix in particular!) offers an impressive selection of drama, comedy, and crime that it make it not just easy, but fun to watch German shows to learn German. 🔵
