Learning a new language can be an exciting yet daunting journey. Why not immerse yourself in authentic language contexts to supplement your language course?
When it comes to learning German, what better way to enhance your linguistic skills than by indulging in German TV shows? Not only do they offer immersion in the language, but they also provide insights into German culture, society, and everyday life. Here, we've curated a list of the best German TV shows that will captivate you while helping you on your language learning journey.
Dark: This mind-bending science fiction thriller gained international acclaim for its intricate plot and compelling characters. Set in the small town of Winden, Dark explores the complexities of time travel, interwoven family sagas, and the mysterious disappearance of several local residents. The dialogue is rich with colloquial German expressions and nuances, offering learners a deep dive into the language.
Tatort: As one of the longest-running crime series in Germany, Tatort (Crime Scene) has become a cultural institution. Each episode follows a team of detectives from different German cities as they investigate various crimes, ranging from murder to fraud. With its diverse settings and regional accents, Tatort provides a diverse linguistic landscape for language learners to explore.
Deutschland 83: Set in the backdrop of the Cold War, this gripping spy thriller follows a young East German soldier who is recruited by the Stasi to work as a spy in West Germany. Deutschland 83 offers a compelling narrative intertwined with historical events, providing viewers with insights into German history and politics while exposing them to authentic German dialogue.
How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast): Inspired by true events, this dark comedy-drama follows a high school student who starts an online drug empire to win back his ex-girlfriend. The series skillfully blends humor with suspense, offering a contemporary portrayal of youth culture in Germany. With its modern vernacular and slang, How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast) provides an engaging platform for language learners to familiarize themselves with colloquial German.
Babylon Berlin: Set in the vibrant and decadent world of 1920s Berlin, this visually stunning series follows a police inspector and a young stenographer as they navigate through the city's underworld, political intrigue, and societal upheaval. Babylon Berlin offers a glimpse into a pivotal period in German history while showcasing the language and culture of the Weimar Republic.
Der letzte Bulle (The Last Cop): This action-packed comedy series follows a tough cop who wakes up from a coma after 20 years and must adjust to modern life while solving crimes. Der letzte Bulle combines humor with detective work, offering viewers an entertaining yet insightful portrayal of contemporary German society.
Darknet: Exploring the darker aspects of the internet, this anthology series delves into the complexities of human behavior in the digital age. Each episode tells a self-contained story, ranging from cyberbullying to online scams, shedding light on the interconnectedness of technology and society. Darknet offers a thought-provoking exploration of modern issues while providing language learners with authentic German dialogue.
Mord mit Aussicht (Murder with a View): This quirky crime series follows a detective from Cologne who is reassigned to a small village in the Eifel region. With its eccentric characters and picturesque setting, Mord mit Aussicht offers a delightful blend of mystery and comedy. The series showcases regional dialects and cultural idiosyncrasies, making it a valuable resource for language learners seeking to broaden their understanding of German language and culture.
German TV shows offer a valuable resource for language learners seeking to immerse themselves in the language and culture of Germany. Whether you're drawn to gripping thrillers, historical dramas, or quirky comedies, there's something for everyone to enjoy while enhancing their language skills. So grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and embark on a language learning journey through the captivating world of German television. Viel Spaß beim Lernen! (Have fun learning!)
About the author:
Corinne is a CELTA-qualified English language teacher who lived in Germany and taught Business English to native German speakers. Corinne has spent 15+ years learning German. |
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