Learn german with Downfall

In April of 1945, Germany stands at the brink of defeat with the Russian Army closing in from the east and the Allied Expeditionary Force attacking from the west. In Berlin, capital of the Third Reich, Adolf Hitler proclaims that Germany will still achieve victory and orders his generals and advisers to fight to the last man. When the end finally does come, and Hitler lies dead by his own hand, what is left of his military must find a way to end the killing that is the Battle of Berlin, and lay down their arms in surrender.

Why learn german with Downfall?

"Downfall" tells the story of Hitler's final days in his Berlin bunker at the end of World War II. It shows the chaos and desperation as the Nazi regime collapses. You can learn vocabulary related to war, politics, and emotions. Examples include "Soldat" (soldier), "Krieg" (war), "Führer" (leader), "Angst" (fear), and "Hoffnung" (hope). The film also uses historical terms like "Nationalsozialisten" (National Socialists) and "Reich" (empire). The film explores themes of loyalty, despair, and the consequences of war. You'll encounter a range of emotions expressed by the characters, from fear and anger to denial and grief. The language used reflects the formal and informal registers of German, and you'll hear different dialects. This exposure to diverse language styles can be valuable for learners. You'll see how language is used to manipulate, persuade, and express strong feelings. Watching "Downfall" can be a useful way to improve your German comprehension and vocabulary. The subtitles can help you follow the dialogue. The film's historical context provides insights into German history and culture. The intense emotions portrayed can make the language more memorable. This can help you develop a deeper understanding of the German language and its nuances.