Learn german with The Captain

Germany, 1945. Soldier Willi Herold, a deserter of the German army, stumbles into a uniform of Nazi captain abandoned during the last and desperate weeks of the Third Reich. Newly emboldened by the allure of a suit that he has stolen only to stay warm, Willi discovers that many Germans will follow the leader, whoever he is.

Why learn german with The Captain?

"The Captain" tells the true story of Willi Herold, a German deserter in the last days of World War II who finds a captain's uniform and pretends to be an officer. He gathers other soldiers and creates a "special unit," committing terrible acts. The film shows the chaos and brutality of war, and how easily power corrupts. You'll encounter military vocabulary like "Hauptmann" (captain), "Soldbuch" (military ID), and "Deserteur" (deserter), as well as everyday words related to survival, fear, and violence. You'll also see how language can be used to manipulate and deceive. This movie explores complex themes of war, power, identity, and morality. It's emotionally intense, portraying fear, desperation, cruelty, and blind obedience. The dialogue includes both formal military language and informal conversations, exposing you to a range of German registers and expressions. You'll hear shouting, pleading, and manipulative speech, which can help you understand the nuances of spoken German and how tone conveys meaning. While disturbing, "The Captain" offers valuable insights into German history and culture during a dark period. It's a chance to learn about the language used in a specific historical context and understand the impact of war on individuals and society. The film's emotional intensity can make the language more memorable and provide a deeper understanding of German culture beyond textbooks. However, be aware that the film contains violence and disturbing scenes; it's not for the faint of heart.