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.

New tips for streaming at home

A selection of films, series, and documentaries

2025, comedy, 88 min, OV with German subtitles

Nix ist fix

A group of friends' weekend retreat at a remote cabin takes a disturbing turn when three strangers occupy the property and refuse to leave. Starring Julia Koschitz, Brigitte Hobmeier, Felix Hellmann (directed by Natalie Spinell).
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 31.07.2027.

© ZDF/STEFANIE LEO © ZDF/STEFANIE LEO
2015, thriller, 117 min, OV with German subtitles

Der Fall Barschel

The thriller revisits the political scandal surrounding Uwe Barschel and the investigation into his still-unsolved death. It follows two journalists who spent years uncovering new details and pursuing the story. Starring Alexander Fehling, Fabian Hinrichs (directed by Kilian Riedhof).
Watch on ARD Mediathek until 20.08.2027.

© rbb/ARD Degeto/Stephan Rabold © rbb/ARD Degeto/Stephan Rabold
2019, comedy, 88 min, OV with German subtitles

Mein Freund, das Ekel

Olaf Hintz is a misanthrope. When his sister Elfie has had enough, she leaves and rents out her share of the apartment to Trixie, a single mother. Starring Dieter Hallervorden, Alwara Höfels (directed by Marco Petry).
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 05.06.2027.

© ZDF/Conny Klein © ZDF/Conny Klein
2024, documentary, 44 min, OV with German subtitles

Der letzte Sommer der DDR

A documentary about the final summer of East Germany, marked by hope, protest, and disillusionment.
Watch on arte until 30.03.2029.

© ZDF © ZDF
2014, fairy tale, 82 min, OV with German subtitles

Das kalte Herz

A fairy tale by Wilhelm Hauff about wealth, temptation, and a dangerous bargain: charcoal burner Peter Munk sells his heart to Michel the Dutchman. Starring Rafael Gareisen, Thomas Thieme (directed by Marc-Andreas Bochert).
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 22.03.2031.

© ZDF/Sandra Bergemann © ZDF/Sandra Bergemann
2022, comedy, 88 min, OV with German subtitles

Lehrer kann jeder!

An unemployed mathematician takes a teaching job at his ex-wife's school hoping it will help him get his professional and personal life back on track. Starring Christoph Maria Herbst, Brigitte Zeh (directed by Ingo Rasper).
Watch on ZDF Mediathek until 01.03.2027.

© ZDF/Marc Meyerbroeker © ZDF/Marc Meyerbroeker