Goethe-Institut USA

A Field Guide German Genre Films

Many of Genre Cinema’s darkest shadows, boldest visions, and deepest anxieties were born in Germany. The new issue in Gegenüber, the online magazine of the Goethe-Institut in North America, traces the strange career of German Genre Film — from its foundational influence on Horror, Noir, and Sci-Fi to its uneasy status within a cinema that favors art over formula. Read now in four languages!

Gegenüber Dossier: Film Key Visual © plus3mm

Among Friends

Under the motto “Among Friends – Unter Freunden,” the Goethe-Institut USA has launched a nationwide campaign to celebrate and strengthen transatlantic friendship. Our programs take place all over the country – not just in cities where you may already know “your” Goethe-Institut. No matter where you are: If you're interested in cultural exchange, have personal or professional ties to Germany, or simply want to discover something new, you’re warmly invited to join us.

Among Friends - Unter Freunden GI colors Logo © Goethe-Institut, Ricardo Roa © Goethe-Institut, Ricardo Roa

Your Experts for Learning German

April Courses Are Online!

Spring is on its way, and registration for our April Online Group Courses is now open.

Get ready for our

Spring Courses

Start:

April 2026

The Goethe-Institut USA is Germany's offical cultural center with convenient and effective German online courses as well as internationally recognized language certificates.

As the international market leader for German courses, we bring you unparalleled expertise and a commitment to delivering top-notch language education.

online group, individual and business courses for all levels
professional and highly trained instructors
state-of-the-art, interactive, and fun teaching methods

eLibrary

The eLibrary is the virtual library of the Goethe-Institut. This free service allows you to borrow digital media, such as ebooks, audio and video files, and electronic newspapers and magazines.

eLibrary

In the Spotlight

Current music from Germany

Popcast #4/2026

Every month, Gegenüber dives into the freshest sounds. Listen to the latest tracks from Germany's music scene. This month featuring Moderat, KMRU, and many more!

Popcast #4/2026 © Edwin Maina © Edwin Maina

Goethe on Demand

Free streaming!

The Goethe-Institut presents a carefully curated collection of German films, available to stream for free. Discover award-winning festival hits, exciting new voices in German cinema and legendary film classics – and find your own personal favourites. Sit back, make yourself comfortable and… action!

German Series in the USA

Binge Fever!

Television “Made in Germany” is having a golden moment with the rise of international streaming services. In this dossier, we highlight binge-worthy German serials and fill you in on where to watch them in the USA.

Serienfieber Illustration of a hand clicking a remote control © Colourbox / Image editing Goethe-Institut Los Angeles © Colourbox / Image editing Goethe-Institut Los Angeles

On the Passing of Jürgen Habermas

The Power of the Argument

Few thinkers earn the highest respect both as master theorists and public intellectuals. But Jürgen Habermas was one of them. The renowned philosopher has died aged 96.

Jürgen Habermas Photo (detail): Johannes Simon; © picture alliance / SZ Photo Photo (detail): Johannes Simon; © picture alliance / SZ Photo