The 13 Best German Movies on Netflix in September 2024

Streaming services like Netflix provide us with access to movies and shows from all over the world.

This means we get an inside look at the culture, language and popular entertainment of places thousands of miles away.

Among the collection of foreign offerings on Netflix are some incredible German movies that will thrill and engage you.

Keep reading for 13 of the best German movies on Netflix, from rom-coms to sci-fi thrillers, documentaries and more. 

With these options, you won’t run out any time soon if you’re hoping to binge the best of German cinema! 

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1. “Im Westen nichts Neues” (“All Quiet on the Western Front”)

Year: 2022

Genre: Action/war drama

This powerful anti-war film is based on the 1929 novel of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque. It’s set during World War I and will immerse you in the harrowing experiences of soldiers during a brutal conflict. Through the eyes of young soldiers, the film explores the grim realities of war, delving into the physical and emotional toll it exacts.

It received numerous awards and nominations including four Oscars at the 95th Academy Awards for Best International Feature, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score and Best Production Design.

2. “Eldorado – Alles, was die Nazis hassen” (“Eldorado: Everything the Nazis Hate”)

3. “Hitler – Eine Karriere” (“Hitler: A Career”)

Year: 1977

Genre: Documentary

This documentary explores the life and political career of Adolf Hitler, delving into his early years, his ascent to power and the atrocities committed during his regime. Using archival footage, interviews and historical analysis, it portrays Hitler’s manipulation of mass psychology and his totalitarian control contributing to the devastation of World War II.

It sheds light on the complexities of his character and ideology, offering important lessons to be learned from history’s darkest chapters. I know we don’t always feel like something heavy, but this is a well-crafted and important watch offering a unique look into the past.

4. “Faraway”

Year: 2023

Genre: Romantic comedy/drama

This charming film follows Zeynep, a woman who feels unhappy in her life. In hopes of finding peace and happiness, she takes a spontaneous trip to a Croatian island where she has inherited a house that her mom bought before she passed away.

There, she’s surprised to meet Josip, who lives on the property. She soon finds that there’s more than just new scenery available to her in this beautiful place. The actors deliver charming performances and the landscapes are breathtaking, contributing to the film’s appeal. While it may be predictable (what rom-com isn’t), it’s a great option for a rainy day.

5. “Wolkenbruch” (“The Awakening of Motti Wolkenbruch”)

6. “Alles ist gut” (“All is Well”)

Year: 2019

Genre: Drama

In this heart-wrenching drama, the main character Janne is sexually assaulted by her boss’ brother-in-law. While she vows to live in silence and not to tell anyone about what has happened to her, the incident festers within her, complicating her work, her day-to-day life and her relationship with her lover.

This film is a true cinematic masterpiece. The cinematography is expertly done, and of course, the German dialogue is elegant and poignant. There’s a reason this film has a coveted 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In 2018, it earned Eva Trobisch the Stockholm Film Festival award for Best Director.

7. “Isi & Ossi”

Year: 2020

Genre: Romantic comedy

This film follows the unlikely romance between two individuals from contrasting backgrounds: Isi, a wealthy girl pressured into an arranged marriage, and Ossi, a struggling boxer seeking financial stability. As they collaborate to fulfill their individual aspirations, their worlds collide and love blossoms.

The film interweaves humor and romance with social commentary, highlighting themes of identity, societal expectations and the pursuit of dreams. You’ll be entertained by the blend of cultural clashes and heartwarming moments as you get wrapped up in a love story that defies conventional norms.

8. “Army of Thieves”

Year: 2021

Genre: Action/comedy/crime thriller

If you caught “Army of the Dead,” you’re in for a treat with its prequel. This film dives into the backstory and the origins of main character Ludwig Dieter. Ludwig is a skilled safecracker who’s entangled in a thrilling heist. He gets recruited by a mysterious woman and joins a team of diverse criminals with unique expertise.

As they plan to rob a series of high-security vaults across Europe, Dieter must navigate complex relationships and unexpected challenges. The story is a blend of action, suspense and humor, and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

9. “Paradise”

Year: 2023

Genre: Sci-fi thriller

This film takes a look into the future where time is currency. In this fictional scenario, a groundbreaking innovation enables the transfer of years of life between individuals. When a woman is forced to give up 40 years of her life to settle a debt, her husband embarks on a determined quest to reclaim those lost years.

In a society obsessed with reversing the aging process, this dystopian thriller provides an interesting look into the possible dangers of this pursuit. If you’re a sci-fi fan or are interested in the potential complications of modern technology, you’ll likely enjoy it.

10. “Meine teuflisch gute Freundin” (“How to Be Really Bad”)

11. “Buba”

Year: 2022

Genre: Comedy/drama

This film follows Buba, whose real name is Jakob Otto. Every time situations in his life start to improve, something bad happens. After his parents die in a tragic accident, Jakob adopts the belief that he must counterbalance any positive emotions in his life.

Working with his brother Dante, they create a method to ensure that his daily experiences are as disagreeable as they can be. This approach has worked for over thirty years, until Jakob unexpectedly falls in love. Maintaining a balance of good and bad in his life becomes a challenge as he falls further for this new romantic interest.

12. “Into the Beat – Dein Herz tanzt” (Your heart is dancing)

Year: 2020

Genre: Drama

This coming-of-age film revolves around Katya, a talented ballet dancer who unexpectedly discovers her passion for hip-hop dancing. As she navigates the worlds of traditional ballet and contemporary dance, Katya embarks on a journey of self-discovery, forging her own path amidst familial expectations.

The film beautifully captures the exhilaration of artistic expression, the challenges of pursuing one’s dreams and the power of embracing individuality. The relatable characters and heartwarming narrative don’t win you over, the engaging dance sequences are sure to entertain you.

13. 60 Minutes

Year: 2023

Genre: Sports

Octavio is a passionate mixed martial artist with a big fight coming up. But he also has a daughter—who he’s desperately fighting to keep custody of.

Octavio’s daughter’s birthday is coming up, but it’s on the same day as the important MMA fight. And if he doesn’t make it, he could forever lose custody of her.

He only has 60 minutes to get to her party, an ultimately, chooses to go instead of participate in the fight.

But when a group of criminals discover his decision, the chase for him is on.

With so many options on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and beyond, you’re bound to find something good to watch—whatever you’re in the mood for! 

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