Top Must-Watch German TV Series
Hey guys! Are you looking to dive into the awesome world of German television? Well, you’ve come to the right place! German TV series have seriously upped their game, offering everything from gripping thrillers to heartwarming dramas and hilarious comedies. Trust me, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your favorite snacks, get comfy, and let’s explore some top-notch deutsche serien that you absolutely need to watch!
1. Dark
Dark isn't just a show; it’s a mind-bending experience. If you love shows that make you think – like, really think – then this is your jam. Set in the fictional town of Winden, Germany, the series kicks off with the disappearance of two young children, which unravels a complex web of secrets connecting four families. But here’s where it gets wild: time travel is a major element. We're talking wormholes, multiple timelines, and characters whose past, present, and future selves are all interconnected. Seriously, you might want to take notes! The creators, Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese, have crafted a visually stunning and intricately plotted narrative that explores existential themes like free will, determinism, and the nature of time itself. The show's success lies in its ability to balance complex scientific concepts with deeply human stories, making you care about the characters even as you're trying to figure out the space-time continuum. Dark has garnered international acclaim for its originality, suspenseful atmosphere, and philosophical depth, setting a new standard for German television. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the haunting soundtrack to the meticulously designed sets that capture the eerie atmosphere of Winden. Each episode is a puzzle piece, slowly revealing the bigger picture while raising even more questions. The show's non-linear narrative keeps you guessing, challenging you to piece together the timelines and relationships between characters. The acting is superb, with a talented ensemble cast bringing depth and nuance to their roles. Dark is not just entertainment; it's an intellectual journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll. So, prepare to have your mind blown and your perception of time forever altered!
2. Babylon Berlin
Step back in time to the roaring twenties with Babylon Berlin, a lavish and gripping historical crime drama. This series plunges you into the chaotic and vibrant world of Weimar-era Berlin, where decadence, political intrigue, and social unrest collide. The story follows Gereon Rath, a police inspector from Cologne, who is transferred to Berlin to investigate a pornography ring. However, he soon gets entangled in a much larger conspiracy involving political extremism, organized crime, and hidden treasures. Babylon Berlin is based on the novels by Volker Kutscher, and the show's creators, Tom Tykwer, Achim von Borries, and Hendrik Handloegten, have spared no expense in bringing this era to life. The production values are through the roof, with meticulously recreated sets, costumes, and music that transport you back to the 1920s. The series offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in German history, capturing the spirit of innovation, experimentation, and social change that defined the Weimar Republic. But beneath the surface of glamour and excitement lies a darker side, with rising political tensions and economic instability threatening to tear the city apart. The characters are complex and compelling, each with their own secrets and motivations. Gereon Rath is a flawed but determined protagonist, struggling with his own personal demons as he navigates the corrupt and dangerous world of Berlin. Charlotte Ritter, a young woman from a poor background, dreams of becoming a police investigator and proves to be a valuable ally to Rath. Their partnership is one of the highlights of the series, adding a layer of human connection to the intricate plot. Babylon Berlin is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, crime dramas, or simply great storytelling. It's a captivating and immersive experience that will leave you wanting more.
3. Deutschland 83, 86, 89
Deutschland 83, 86, and 89 form a trilogy of spy thrillers that take you behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. The series follows Martin Rauch, a young East German border guard who is forced to go undercover as a spy for the Stasi, East Germany's secret police. Each season focuses on a different year and explores the escalating tensions between East and West Germany. Deutschland 83 kicks off in 1983, when Martin is sent to West Germany to gather intelligence on NATO's military plans. He finds himself caught in a web of espionage, deception, and moral dilemmas as he tries to balance his duty to his country with his own conscience. Deutschland 86 picks up three years later, with Martin now working for the Stasi's foreign intelligence arm. He is sent to Africa to secure weapons for the East German government, facing new challenges and dangers in a volatile and unfamiliar environment. Deutschland 89 concludes the trilogy with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Martin returns to East Germany as the country is on the brink of collapse, and he must navigate the chaos and uncertainty as the old order crumbles. The Deutschland series is a gripping and insightful look at the Cold War from a German perspective. It combines thrilling spy action with complex character development, exploring the human cost of political ideology. The series also offers a fascinating glimpse into East German society, portraying the daily lives, struggles, and aspirations of people living under a repressive regime. The acting is excellent, with Jonas Nay delivering a standout performance as Martin Rauch. The series has been praised for its historical accuracy, its suspenseful storytelling, and its thought-provoking themes. If you're a fan of spy thrillers or interested in Cold War history, the Deutschland series is a must-watch.
4. Bad Banks
Bad Banks is a fast-paced and suspenseful drama that takes you inside the cutthroat world of high finance. The series follows Jana Liekam, a young and ambitious investment banker who is caught in a web of power struggles, corruption, and betrayal. After a series of setbacks, Jana is given a second chance to prove herself at a prestigious bank in Frankfurt. However, she soon discovers that the world of finance is far more ruthless and dangerous than she ever imagined. Bad Banks offers a realistic and unflinching look at the inner workings of the banking industry, exposing the greed, ambition, and moral compromises that drive its players. The series explores complex financial concepts in an accessible way, making it engaging even for viewers who are not experts in the field. The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, each with their own agendas and secrets. Jana Liekam is a compelling protagonist, struggling to navigate the treacherous landscape of high finance while trying to maintain her integrity. The series also features a strong supporting cast, including Paula Beer as Christelle Leblanc, a ruthless and manipulative investment banker who serves as Jana's mentor and rival. Bad Banks has been praised for its sharp writing, its compelling performances, and its realistic portrayal of the financial world. It's a gripping and thought-provoking drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you're interested in finance, business, or simply a well-crafted thriller, Bad Banks is a must-watch.
5. How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)
Get ready for a wild ride with How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast), a quirky and irreverent comedy-drama that puts a modern spin on the coming-of-age story. The series follows Moritz Zimmermann, a socially awkward teenager who starts an online drug business to win back his ex-girlfriend. With the help of his best friend, Lenny, a tech-savvy coder, Moritz creates MyDrugs, a website that quickly becomes a huge success. However, as their business grows, they find themselves in over their heads, facing competition from established drug dealers and attracting the attention of law enforcement. How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) is a hilarious and entertaining series that explores the themes of friendship, love, and ambition in the digital age. It offers a satirical look at internet culture, social media, and the dark side of e-commerce. The characters are quirky and relatable, and the show's fast-paced plot keeps you hooked from beginning to end. Maximilian Mundt delivers a standout performance as Moritz Zimmermann, capturing his awkwardness, his ambition, and his growing sense of responsibility. The series also features a talented supporting cast, including Anna Lena Klenke as Lisa Novak, Moritz's ex-girlfriend, and Damian Hardung as Daniel Riffert, a popular jock who becomes involved in their business. How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) has been praised for its originality, its humor, and its fresh perspective on the coming-of-age genre. It's a fun and engaging series that will appeal to viewers of all ages. If you're looking for a lighthearted and entertaining show with a unique twist, How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) is a must-watch.
So there you have it, folks! Five fantastic German TV series that are sure to keep you entertained. From mind-bending thrillers to historical dramas and quirky comedies, there’s a little something for everyone. Happy watching, and bis zum nächsten Mal!