DVDs and videos in German offer an enjoyable way for the language-learner to hear authentic German. Here are your Guide's top choices. Note: Unless stated otherwise, all of our DVDs and videos are Region 1/NTSC, for use in North America - in German with English subtitles.
1. Run Lola Run
This is the easiest choice in my top ten. While some critics might place one of the many older German film classics in this spot, I consider "Lola rennt" a classic for its time. Director Tom Tykwer and star Franka Potente haved pulled off a real cinematic coup - a unique combination of action, humor and visual treats. DVD.2. Das Boot - Director's Cut
Director Wolfgang Petersen ("Perfect Storm," "Air Force One") made this anti-war film before settling permanently in Hollywood. In the early 1980s "The Boat" did something unusual for a German film - it became a worldwide hit. Petersen's realistic portrayal of submarine warfare set new cinematic standards.
3. Mostly Martha (Bella Martha)
Sandra Nettelbeck's bittersweet film was a sleeper hit in Germany and and the U.S. Set in a ritzy French restaurant in Hamburg, Nettelbeck's first film tells the story of Martha (Martina Gedeck), whose entire life revolves around cooking. But her life gets turned upside down by events inside and outside the restaurant where she is head chef.4. Wonderful Horrible Life of L. Riefenstahl
A look at the life of Hitler's favorite film director. She has remained controversial - and active - to this day (she turned 100 in 2002). I'd rate Ray Muller's documentary even higher if it weren't just a bit too long. But it offers fascinating, revealing glimpses of the filmmaker and her work.5. The Blue Angel
This film has moved up in the rankings because of the new DVD restoration. THE BLUE ANGEL boosted the careers of both director von Sternberg and his discovery, Marlene Dietrich, as the sultry Lola Lola. Filmed in English and German versions, the German release is still considered superior (both are on the new DVD!). Based on the novel Professor Unrat by Heinrich Mann.6. M (Criterion DVD)
Director Fritz Lang, in his very first sound film, used the new technology masterfully to help create a true classic. As in his earlier silent, "Metropolis," the visual elements are also used to maximum effect (seen better on this new DVD). Based on a true case of serial child murders. Peter Lorre's first film role is perhaps his best ever.7. Aguirre, the Wrath of God
Spaniards speaking German! Klaus Kinski stars as a mad conquistador in the jungles of Peru. Director Werner Herzog filmed on location. The opening shot through the mists of the Andes is a mesmerizing scene of ant-like Spanish soldiers negotiating a narrow trail - carrying cannons and chicken crates. Loosely based on an actual lost expedition.8. Enlightenment Guaranteed
Doris Dorrie's highly praised film about two brothers searching for meaning in their lives - in Japan. Filled with Dorrie's usual humor and surprises.9. Wings of Desire
Now on DVD! Wim Wenders' "Der Himmel über Berlin" is a poetic film about angels in Berlin. The visual poetry comes from Wenders, who co-wrote the script with Austrian poet Peter Handke. Hollywood's 1998 melodramatic remake ("City of Angels") didn't even come close to the original's lyrical quality.