Learn german with Berlin Blues

In October 1989, the part of the West Berlin borough of Kreuzberg called SO 36, had been largely shut off by the Wall from the rest of the city for 28 years. A lethargic sub-culture of students, artists, bohemians and barflys had flourished among crumbling buildings. Part of that microcosm is barkeeper Frank, semi-formally called 'Herr Lehmann' by friends and patrons. He hangs out drinking, sports utter disregard for anything beyond SO 36 and lazily pursues an affair with cook Katrin. His lifestyle is gradually disturbed, when his parents show up for a visit, things go awry with Katrin and his best friend Karl starts to act strange. Meanwhile, political turmoil mounts on the other side of the Wall.

Why learn german with Berlin Blues?

"Berlin Blues" (Herr Lehmann) offers a snapshot of pre-reunification Kreuzberg, Berlin. The story follows Frank Lehmann, a bartender navigating life, love, and the eccentricities of his neighborhood. German learners can pick up everyday vocabulary related to bar life (Bier, Kneipe, Schnaps), food (Schweinebraten, Kartoffelchips), and social interactions (Hallo, Tschüss, Mach’s gut). The film also introduces colloquialisms and slang, giving a realistic taste of spoken German. Witnessing Frank's interactions with his quirky friends and family provides valuable context for understanding German culture and humor. The film explores themes of friendship, love, aging, and change, all expressed with a mix of humor and melancholy. The dialogue is often raw and emotional, exposing learners to a range of expressive German vocabulary. The movie demonstrates how Germans express frustration, affection, and sarcasm, offering a deeper understanding of conversational nuances. "Berlin Blues" presents a variety of speaking styles, from casual banter to more formal interactions, which can broaden a learner's understanding of German communication. This movie is a great tool for intermediate German learners. The relatively clear pronunciation, combined with the engaging storyline, makes it easy to follow. "Berlin Blues" offers a chance to immerse yourself in a specific German subculture and historical period. By listening to the natural flow of conversation, you can improve your comprehension and pick up on authentic German expressions. The film's emotional depth also provides a connection to the language, making the learning process more enjoyable and memorable.