German pop-culture-series: The Best German Netflix shows to watch
Today we want to give all expats in Germany some more insights into German Pop-culture! Regardless if you already live in Germany or if you plan on moving to Germany for work, knowing the pop-culture is a true benefit. It brings you closer together with German co-workers, you’ll pick up German faster and also get an understanding for German culture.
Here you will find our top three recommendations for which German Netflix shows to watch!
No. 1 Deutschland 83
English Subtitle: yes
"Deutschland 83" is a German television series that first aired in 2015. It is a spy thriller that takes place during the Cold War era in 1983, when Germany was still divided into East and West. The series follows Martin Rauch (played by Jonas Nay), a young East German soldier who is recruited by the Stasi (East German secret police) to work as a spy in West Germany. He is sent undercover to infiltrate the Bundeswehr (West German army) and gather information about NATO's military plans.
As Martin navigates his way through the complex world of espionage, he faces moral dilemmas and personal challenges that test his loyalty and put his life in danger. He must also confront the realities of life in the West, including the allure of consumer culture and the tensions between East and West.
The series is a suspenseful and thrilling drama that offers a unique perspective on the Cold War era and the struggles faced by those caught in the middle of the ideological conflict. It also explores themes such as identity, loyalty, and the high cost of espionage and betrayal.
No. 2 Cleo
English Subtitle: yes
"Cleo" is a German drama series that was released in 2019. The film is directed by Erik Schmitt and stars Marleen Lohse in the titular role of Cleo, a young woman who lives in Berlin.
The story follows Cleo, who works as a singer in a local bar and is struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of her parents. One day, she meets a stranger who gives her a magical clock that can turn back time for one day. With this newfound power, Cleo sets out to change the course of her life and try to prevent the tragedy that befell her family.
As Cleo navigates her way through the streets of Berlin, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories and struggles. Along the way, she discovers new opportunities and experiences that help her find a sense of purpose and hope in the midst of her grief.
The film is a poignant and heartwarming story that explores themes of loss, love, and the power of human connection. It is a tribute to the vibrant and diverse city of Berlin and the people who call it home.
No 3. Bad banks
English Subtitle: no
French Subtitle: yes
The movie "Bad Banks" is a German television series that first aired in 2018. The series is set in the world of high finance and follows the story of a young, talented banker named Jana Liekam (played by Paula Beer) who works for a prestigious bank in Frankfurt. Jana is recruited by the bank's CEO, Gabriel Fenger (played by Barry Atsma), to work on a high-stakes project that involves a merger with a Luxembourg-based investment bank.
As Jana becomes more involved in the project, she begins to uncover a web of corruption and deceit that threatens to bring down the bank and destroy her career. She must navigate the complex and dangerous world of high finance, competing interests, and personal ambition as she fights to uncover the truth and protect her own integrity.
The series explores themes such as ambition, power, greed, and the dark side of the financial industry. It is a gripping and suspenseful drama that offers a glimpse into the cutthroat world of investment banking and the consequences of pursuing wealth and success at any cost.
Christine is a co-founder of Jetztpat. She was raised in the so-called Schwabenländle but fell in love with travelling to random places very early in life. After living in Japan and Taiwan for several years, she finally went back home to stay in the German beer capital (where she survives by drinking wine). If she is not watching her favorite Japanese Netflix show aggretsuko, you can find her Googling answers to the real questions in life.