Learn German with Before the Fall

In 1942, Friedrich Weimer's boxing skills get him an appointment to a National Political Academy (NaPolA) – high schools that produce Nazi elite. Over his father's objections, Friedrich enrolls. During his year in seventh column,Friedrich encounters hazing, cruelty, death, and the Nazi code. His friendship with Albrecht, the ascetic son of the area's governor, is central to this education.

Why learn German with Before the Fall?

"Before the Fall" tells the story of Friedrich, a talented young boxer recruited to a National Political Academy (Napola) in Nazi Germany. The film follows his experiences at the school, where he faces rigorous training, strict discipline, and the indoctrination of Nazi ideology. Through Friedrich's eyes, we see the seductive nature of power and the corrupting influence of blind obedience. The movie exposes the dark side of the Nazi regime's elite education system. By watching this film, you'll encounter vocabulary related to military life ("Uniform," "Soldat," "Gewehr"), sports ("Boxen," "Kampf," "Sieg"), and historical context ("Führer," "Reich," "Nationalsozialismus"). The film explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and moral conflict in a time of war. You'll witness a range of emotions, from excitement and ambition to fear and despair. The dialogue includes both formal and informal language, offering valuable exposure to different registers of German. You’ll hear military commands, conversations between friends, and speeches by Nazi officials. The intense emotional scenes will help you understand the nuances of German intonation and expression. The movie's focus on dialogue and character interaction makes it an excellent resource for practicing listening comprehension and expanding your vocabulary. "Before the Fall" provides a unique opportunity to learn German within a specific historical and cultural context. This movie allows you to improve your German while gaining valuable insights into a crucial period in German history. The film's themes of moral dilemma and the consequences of political extremism are still relevant today, prompting reflection and discussion. By engaging with the language and the story, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of German culture and history.