Streaming recommendations

We have compiled a fantastic selection of German films and series for you to enjoy that are currently available in the media libraries of the public broadcasters and on various streaming services in Germany. And best of all, they can be streamed for free, without registration or geoblocking.

Pure tension

A collection of films, documentaries, series

2020, drama, 250 min, OV with German subtitles
Breaking Even

During a test drive, the prototype of a self-driving car is involved in a fatal accident. In this exciting drama, Lawyer Nora Shaheen is tasked with preventing a scandal that threatens to bring down the Lindemann company. Starring Lorna Ishema, Justus von Dohnányi and Sinje Irslinger.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 03.07.2024.

© ZDF/Philipp Rathmer
2023, thriller, 250 min, OV with German subtitles
Der Schatten

In this mystery thriller series, journalist Norah is told by a beggar that she will kill a man called Arthur Grimm on 13 August. Following the ominous prophecy, strange things start to happen in Norah’s life... Based on the novel by Melanie Raabe. Starring Deleila Piasko and Andreas Pietschmann.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 26.05.2025.

© ZDF / Tomas Mikule
2021, crime, 180 min, OV with German subtitles
Sörensen

Crime series by and starring Bjarne Mädel, based on the novels by Sven Stricker. Chief Inspector Sörensen suffers from an anxiety disorder and transfers to a supposedly quieter town in Nordfriesland, where he hopes life will be more peaceful. Things are not as uneventful as he might have hoped though.
Watch on ARD Mediathek until 23.03.2025.

© NDR/Michael Ihle
2024, drama, 105 min, OV with German subtitles
Testo

Created by and starring Kida Ramadan, the series is about five convicts who commit a bank robbery that results in a hostage situation. Also starring Frederick Lau, Veysel Gelin, Nicolette Krebitz and Ronald Zehrfeld.
Watch on ARD Mediathek until 02.02.2025.

© ARD Degeto/Marco Fischer/Grafik: Niklas Hail
2023, documentary, 172 min, OV with German subtitles
Buchstäblich leben!

The long-term documentary follows eight individuals on their quest to learn reading and writing.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 16.12.2028.

© ZDF/Jennifer Jakobs
2023, drama, 89 min, OV with German subtitles
Der Fall Marianne Voss

After almost 50 years of seemingly harmonious marriage, Marianne is found dead in the woods and her husband Karsten is suspected of murder. The subsequent trial unveils the truth about their relationship. Starring Jörg Schüttauf, Valerie Koch, directed by Uljana Havemann.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 22.03.2025.

© ZDF/Stefan Erhard
2020, documentary, 60 min, OV with German subtitles
24 Stunden Dachau

A documentary about the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp by the US Army on April 29, 1945. It also sheds light on how today's residents deal with the difficult legacy of this place.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 04.04.2025.

© ZDF/Kathrin Beck
2023, crime, 90 min. OV with German subtitles
Der Millionen Raub

An armoured car robbery is staged, but after an argument one of the drivers disappears with the €8 million worth of loot. When he's arrested, police, lawyers and family members pressure him to reveal the whereabouts of the money. Starring Inaam Al Battat, Karim Ben Mansur, Anja Kling, directed by Lars Becker.
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 29.03.2025.

© ZDF/Thomas Leidig