31 Best Classic Movies In Germany To Watch In Your Free Time!

Best-Classic-Movies

Indulge in the magic of cinema with my curated selection of the 31 Best Classic Movies in Germany that have not only stood the test of time but continue to captivate audiences with their timeless appeal. There’s an undeniable charm in the classics that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

I have explored many genres to bring you an eclectic mix of films—from the enchanting narratives of old Hollywood to the transformative foreign dramas that have shaped the industry. Each film promises to enrich your understanding of film history and entertain you as only the classics can.

I invite you to experience these cinematic masterpieces that range from the heartwarming to the thrilling. Some of these masterful creations are readily available for streaming, and with a VPN like ExpressVPN, you can enjoy them with ease.


1. Gone with the Wind (1939)

Gone-with-the-Wind-1939

Director: Victor Fleming
Writers: Oliver H.P. Garrett, Margaret Mitchell, Sidney Howard
Cast: Oscar Polk, Victor Jory, Vivien Leigh., Red Crane, Thomas Mitchell
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Trailer: YouTube

Gone with the Wind is set in the American South during the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. The film tells the story of Scarlett O’Hara, a determined daughter of a Georgia plantation owner. Scarlett falls for Ashley Wilkes.

Who is, unfortunately, already married to his cousin, Melanie Hamilton. After various twists and turns, Scarlett marries Rhett Butler, a charming yet roguish profiteer. The movie delves into themes of love, loss, survival, and resilience amidst war and social change.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a budget of $3.85 million, which was substantial for its time, box office collection exceeded $390 million.
  • When adjusted for inflation, it remains the highest-grossing film in history.
  • At the 12th Academy Awards, Gone with the Wind received ten Oscars out of thirteen nominations.
Watch on Amazon

Dark Secret:


2. The Godfather (1972)

The-Godfather-(1972)

Director: Francis ford
Writers: Mario Puzo, Francis Ford Coppola
Cast: John Marley, Robert Duvall, Al Pacino, Sterling Hayden, Sterling Hayden
IMDb Rating: 9.2 /10
Trailer: YouTube

At his daughter’s wedding, aging mafia boss Don Vito Corleone leads the New York-based Corleone family. His youngest son, Michael, a WWII hero, initially shows no interest in the family’s criminal activities. However, when a rival gangster proposes a drug deal needing Vito’s backing.

He declines, it sparks a conflict between traditional and modern criminal tactics. This disagreement might push Michael to take dramatic steps, risking a violent mob war and the unity of the Corleone family. The Godfather is one of the best classic movies in Germany on Netflix.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a budget of approximately $6.5 million,  grossing over $245 million worldwide.
  • The Godfather received critical acclaim and won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
  • The horse head scene, where a severed horse head is placed in a bed, is one of the most memorable moments. It was created using a real horse head from a dog food company.
Watch on Paramount Plus

5 Fascinating Facts:


3. The Wizard Of Oz (1939)

The-Wizard-Of-Oz-(1939)

Director: Victor Fleming
Writers: Edgar Allan Woolf, Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson.
Cast: Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Garland, Billie Burke, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Trailer: YouTube

Dorothy Gale, played by Judy Garland, and her dog Toto find themselves whisked away from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz by a tornado. In Oz, Dorothy joins forces with three new friends: the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion.

Together, they set off to meet the Wizard, hoping he can send Dorothy back home and grant their wishes. On their journey, they face challenges from the Wicked Witch of the West and meet the cheerful Munchkins.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a budget of approximately $2.8 million, earning $29.7 million at the box office.
  • The film won Best Original Score for Herbert Stothart and an Academy Juvenile Award for Judy Garland.
  • The Wizard of Oz is celebrated for using vibrant Technicolor, which brought the Land of Oz to life.
Watch on MAX

Top 10 Wizard of Oz Facts:


4. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Lawrence-of-Arabia-(1962)

Director: David Lean
Writers: Micheal Wilson, Robert Bolt
Cast: Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Omar Sheriff, Jack Hawkins
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie traces the remarkable adventure of T.E. Lawrence, a British Army lieutenant in World War I. Lawrence emerges as a key leader in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. His journey through the immense deserts of the Hejaz and Greater Syria sees him joining forces with Arab tribes and orchestrating bold attacks.

The film explores Lawrence’s personal battles with violence, identity, and his divided loyalties between Britain and his new allies. Lawrence of Arabia is classified among the great classic movies of all time in Germany due to its epic score and perfect cinematography.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a substantial budget of approximately $15 million, grossing over $70 million worldwide.
  • The scene where Lawrence rescues the lost Gasim is based on a real event. However, Lawrence faced ridicule rather than heroism for his efforts.
  • It received ten Oscar nominations at the 35th Academy Awards in 1963, winning seven, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Watch on Amazon

Truth About:


5. Citizen Kane (1941)

Citizen-Kane-1941

Director: Orson Welles
Writers: Orson Welles, John Houseman, Herman J.
Cast: Paul Stewart, Phillip Van, Georgia Backus, Ray Collins, Ruth Warrick, Orson Welles,
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a media tycoon. Kane starts his journey to power with a small newspaper he inherits from his mother. As he expands his empire, he becomes more secluded and mysterious.

The film unfolds in a non-linear way, showing Kane’s life through flashbacks and interviews with people who were close to him. The movie’s central mystery revolves around the word “Rosebud,” a symbol of Kane’s lost innocence and the dreams he never achieved.

This movie is rated as one of the best good old movies to watch in Germany 2021 ever made.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a budget of approximately $840,000.
  • The sled with the word “Rosebud” is a recurring motif. It symbolizes Kane’s longing for his childhood innocence and happiness.
  • The film was nominated for nine Academy Awards and won for Best Writing (Original Screenplay) by Mankiewicz and Welles.
Watch on MAX

1941: Citizen Kane: What Makes A Masterpiece?

If geo-restrictions limit your access to movies unavailable in the US, consider using ExpressVPN to overcome these barriers and enjoy uninterrupted streaming.


6. Casablanca (1942)

Casablanca-(1942)

Director: Michael Curtiz
Writers: Howard Kotch, Philip Epstein, Julius Epstein
Cast: Ius Epstein, Peter Lorrwe, Joy Page, Paul Henreid, Dooley Wilson, Humphrey Bogart, Sydney Greenstreet
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in the Vichy-controlled city of Casablanca during World War II, the film follows Rick Blaine, a cynical American expatriate played by Humphrey Bogart, who owns a popular nightclub. The story heats up when Rick’s past love, Ilsa Lund, unexpectedly shows up at his club with her husband, Victor Laszlo.

A Czechoslovak resistance leader on the run from the Nazis. With a tough choice, Rick must decide if he will help the couple escape or look out for his interests. It deserves to be one of the best classic movies in Germany in terms of story structure with different plotlines.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • One of the most iconic lines from the film, spoken by Rick to Ilsa, has become part of pop culture.
  • The Letters of Transit: These fictional documents play a crucial role in the plot, allowing safe passage for those escaping Casablanca.
  • Casablanca received critical acclaim and won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Watch on MAX

What’s So Great About Casablanca? Ask a Film Professor:


7. Some Like It Hot (1959)

Some-Like-It-Hot-(1959)

Director: Billy Wilder
Writers: Robert Thoeren, I. A Diamond, Billy Wilder
Cast: Joan Shawlee, Tony Curtis, Billy Gray, Dave Barry, Harry Wilson, Mike Mazurki, George Raft.
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in 1929 Chicago during Prohibition, the film follows two musicians, Joe and Jerry, who witness a mob hit. In a bid to escape gangster Spats Colombo, they disguise themselves as women and join an all-female band headed to Miami. The story humorously tracks their efforts to hide their identities while dodging the mafia.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film draws inspiration from the infamous Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre, a real-life event where mobsters were gunned down in Chicago.
  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $2.9 million, grossing around $49 million.
  • The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Watch on Amazon

Behind the Scenes: Secrets, Scandals, and Marilyn’s Mystique:


8. An American In Paris (1951)

An-American-In-Paris-(1951)

Director: Vincente Minnelli
Writer: Alan Jay
Cast: Nina Foch, Leslie Caron, Oscar Levant, Gene Kelly, Georges Guetary
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie tells the story of Jerry Mulligan, an American World War II veteran trying to make it as an artist in Paris. His friend and neighbor, Adam Cook, is a pianist who finds it tough to succeed. Things change for Jerry when a wealthy heiress spots his talent and shows interest in him and his work.

Meanwhile, Jerry falls for a French woman, which adds a twist of romance and difficulties to his life.The film is one of the best movies in Germany on Netflix.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film is inspired by George Gershwin’s 1928 jazz-influenced symphonic poem, An American in Paris.
  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $2.7 million, grossing around $7 million at the box office.
  • The film garnered eight Academy Award nominations and won six, including Best Picture.
Watch on Amazon

35 Fun Facts:


9. The Power of the Dog (2021)

The-Power-of-the-Dog-(2021)

Director: Jana Campion
Writers: Thomas Savage, Jane Campion
Cast: Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit, Stephen Brian, Max Mata, Josh Owen, Cohen Halloway, Eddie Campbell.
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in Montana in 1925, the film follows Phil Burbank, a charismatic rancher who commands fear and admiration. As the story unfolds, Phil’s life takes a turn when his brother introduces a new wife and her son into their home.

Despite initially tormenting them, Phil finds himself unexpectedly confronting the potential for love amidst the chaos. This film is one of the top old movies in Germany in 2024 for those who love tension.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Although set in Montana, the film was shot mostly within rural Otago, New Zealand.
  • The film received 12 nominations at the 94th Academy Awards, including Best Picture and acting nods for Benedict Cumberbatch, Jesse Plemons, and Kodi Smit-McPhee.
Watch on Netflix

The Power of The Dog, Ending Explained:


10. West Side Story (2021)

West-Side-Story-(2021)

Director: Steven Spielberg
Writers: Arthur Laurents, Tony Kusher
Cast: Rita Moreno, Debose, Ansel Elgort, Ricardo Zayas, Corey Stoll, Andriel Flete
IMDb rating: 7.1/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie is the second full-length version of the 1957 musical with the same title. It’s set in New York City and centers on the rivalry between two street gangs: the Jets, made up of white working-class Americans, and the Sharks, consisting of Puerto Rican immigrants.

Amid this conflict, Tony, a former Jet, falls in love with Maria, who is the sister of the Sharks’ leader. Their love story emerges amidst a storm of prejudice, violence, and cultural clashes. It deserves to be one of the best classic movies in Germanyof all time.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Justin Peck choreographed the dance sequences, capturing the energy and tension of the rival gangs.
  • The film had a production budget of $100 million, grossing only $76 million against an estimated $300 million break-even target.
  • The film received seven nominations at the 94th Academy Awards, including Best Picture, with Ariana DeBose winning Best Supporting Actress.
Watch on Disney Plus

Top 10 Differences Between West Side Story (2021) & (1961):


11. Meet Me In St. Louis (1944)

Meet Me In St. Louis (1944)

Director: Vincennte Minnelli
Writers: Sally Benson, Fred F, Irving Brecher
Cast: Leon Ames, Joan Carol, Robert Sully, Tom Drake, Chil Wills, Hugh Marlowe
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Trailer: YouTube

The film unfolds through seasonal vignettes, starting in the summer of 1903. It traces the daily lives of the Smith family in St. Louis as they anticipate the grand opening of the 1904 World’s Fair.

The Smiths are an upper-middle-class family consisting of parents Alonzo and Anna, their four daughters—Rose, Esther, Agnes, and Tootie—and their son, Lon Jr. Throughout the story, Esther, the second eldest daughter, quietly nurtures a crush on John Truett, the boy next door.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Unlike many musicals, its plot doesn’t revolve around Broadway or show business. Instead, it focuses on a typical upper-middle-class family’s life.
  • The film was made with a budget of approximately $1.9 million, grossing a total of $12.9 million.
  • Judy Garland, in her iconic role, introduced timeless standards:
    “The Trolley Song”
    “The Boy Next Door”
    “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”
    These songs, written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, became hits after the film’s release.
Watch on Amazon

The Trolley Song:


12. Roman Holiday (1953)

Roman-Holiday-(1953)

Director: William Wyler
Writers: John Dighton, Ian Hunter, Dalton Trumbo
Cast: Alfredo Rizzo, Gorilla Gori, Tullio Carminati, Harcout Williams, Laura Solai, Paolo Carlini
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Trailer: YouTube

In the movie, we meet Crown Princess Ann, who’s been touring Europe’s capitals for her country. Exhausted after a day in Rome, she takes her doctor’s advice to take a break and do as she pleases. Sneaking out of the embassy, Ann heads into the city alone. She falls asleep on a bench, still groggy from a sedative.

Joe Bradley, an American journalist based in Rome, finds her there. Mistaking her for a drunk woman, he takes her back to his apartment to rest. Joe misses a press conference about the princess because he overslept.

However, he quickly realizes that his unexpected guest is the princess herself. Spotting a chance for an exclusive story, Joe offers to tour her around Rome, keeping his job as a reporter a secret.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Bernard Vorhaus, a blacklisted director, worked on the film as an assistant director under a pseudonym.
  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $1.5 million and grossed around $12 million at the box office.
  • Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Princess Ann remains iconic, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Watch on Amazon

Why Audrey Hepburn Won Best Actress for Roman Holiday:


13. The Last Letter from Your Lover (2021)

The-Last-Letter-from-You-Lover-(2021)

Director: Augustine Frizzell
Writers: Jojo Moyes, Esta Spalding, Nick Payne
Cast: Emma Appleton, Ncuti Gatwa, Joe Alwyn, Shailene Woodley, Felicity Lones
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Trailer: YouTube

The film adapts Jojo Moyes’ 2011 novel, combining two different eras. In the 1960s, Jennifer Stirling, a rich socialite, loses her memory in a car accident and finds a puzzling letter signed by J and Boot, which piques her interest.

In today’s London, journalist Ellie Haworth finds a love letter in the wrong file, also between J and Boot. Driven by curiosity, she discovers the true story behind this intense romance. It’s one of the best classic movies in Germany on Netflix.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Jennifer’s pursuit of memories through the letter and Ellie’s determination to uncover the truth creates an intriguing mystery.
  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $1.5 million and garnered $1,451,974 at the box office.
Watch on Netflix

Exclusive Behind The Scenes Of The Last Letter From Your Lover:


14. Lady Bird (2017)

Lady-Bird-(2017)

Director: Greta Gerwig
Writer: Greta Gerwig
Cast: Tracy Letts, Laurie Metcalf, Odeye Rush, Marielle Scott, John Karna, Laura Marano
IMDb rating: 7.4/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in Sacramento, California, from the fall of 2002 to the fall of 2003, the film centers on Christine McPherson, who goes by Lady Bird. A senior at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic High School.

Lady Bird dreams of escaping her family’s financial hardships by attending a prestigious college on the East Coast. The film captures her rocky relationship with her mother, Marion, and her path to finding herself during her pivotal last year of high school.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Lady Bird was made with a modest budget of approximately $10 million, grossed around$79 millionworldwide.
  • It earned five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Watch on Tubi TV

What’s So Great About Lady Bird:


15. Malcolm & Marie (2021)

Malcolm-&-Marie-(2021)

Director: Sam Levinson
Writers: Sam Levinson
Cast: Zendaya, John David
IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
Trailer: YouTube

The film follows Malcolm Elliott, a filmmaker, and his girlfriend, Marie Jones. After celebrating Malcolm’s movie premiere, they come home anticipating success. But their night turns intense as secrets from their past and present challenge their relationship. It delves into themes of love, vulnerability, and the intricate ways we connect.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The first films entirely written, directed, and completed during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.
Watch on Netflix 

The Most Powerful Lines In Malcolm & Marie:


16. The Witch (2015)

The-Witch-(2015)

Director: Robert Eggers
Writer: Robert Eggers
Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Harvey Scrimshaw, Kate Dickie, Ralph Ineson
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in 1630s New England, the movie tells the story of an English settler family—William, Katherine, their teenage daughter Thomasin, their preteen son Caleb, and young twins Mercy and Jonas. After being banished from a Puritan settlement because of a religious disagreement, they set up a farm next to a secluded forest.

Tragedy strikes when their infant son, Samuel, vanishes while under Thomasin’s watch. It soon comes to light that a witch has abducted and killed him to create a potion for flying. As the family deals with grief and grows suspicious of each other, supernatural events intensify, leading to a frightening showdown with evil.”

The Witch is one of the best classic horror movies in Germany that is incredibly believable and quite frightening. Good for the targeted audience.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $4 million and grossed $40.4 million worldwide.
  • Considered one of the best horror films of the 2010s, it masterfully blends historical accuracy, folklore, and psychological horror.
  • The Witch portrays a repressive Puritan society and the dark liberation of witches. It delves into psychological conflict and family dynamics.
Watch on MAX

The Witch – Explained:

Since not all movies are available in the US library of streaming services, I suggest using ExpressVPN to bypass these limitations and stream smoothly if you encounter geo-restrictions.


17. Marriage Story (2019)

Marriage-Story-(2019)

Director: Noah Baumbach
Writer: Noah Baumbach
Cast: David Turner, Eric Berryman, Raymond Lee, Pete Simpson, Mickey Sumner, Adam Driver.
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Trailer: YouTube

Marriage Story tells the intense tale of a couple embroiled in a bitter divorce that stretches from coast to coast. Through their struggles, the film delves into the intricate nature of their relationship, the hardships of parting ways, and the effects on their family.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film was made with a budget of approximately $18 million. However, a relatively modest box office performance, grossing around $2.3 million worldwide.
  • The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Driver), Best Actress (Johansson), and Best Original Screenplay.
Watch on Netflix 

Understanding Marriage Story:


18. Dirty Dancing (1987)

Dirty-Dancing-(1987)

Director: Emile ardolini
Writer: Eleanor Bergstein
Cast: Patrick Swayze, Jack Weston, Jerry Obach, Brucker, Wayne Knight, Max Cantor
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Trailer: YouTube

Houseman goes to Catskill Mountain Resort with her family. She is a big girl ready to join college but becomes engaged to Johnny castle, a dance instructor. She fetches money from her father to carry out an abortion for her lover’s friend, a meet-up who later becomes sick after the abortion.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $4.5 million, grossing over$214 million worldwide.
  • The film’s soundtrack, including the iconic song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” achieved multi-platinum status.
Watch on Amazon

Dirty Dancing – Top 5 Facts:


19. On the Waterfront (1954)

On-the-Waterfront-(1954)

Director: Elia Kazan
Writers: Malcolm Johnson, Budd Schulberg, Robert Siodmak
Cast: Marlon Brando, Lee Cobb, Erickson Patt Henning, Blackman
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Trailer: YouTube

Terry Malloy runs errands for a corrupt boss at the docks. She witnesses a murder scene by her boss’ guys where she meets the deceased person’s sister. But Father Barry tries to get information from her boss. On the Waterfront is one of the best classic movies in Germany due to its emblematic cinematography.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • On the Waterfront was made with a modest budget of approximately $910,000, grossing around $9.6 million.
  • The film received twelve Academy Award nominations and won eight, including Best PictureBest Actor for Marlon Brando, Best Supporting Actress for Eva Marie Saint, and Best Director for Elia Kazan.
Watch on Amazon

On the Waterfront 20-minute summary:


20. Army of The Dead (2021)

Army-of-The-Dead-(2021)

Director: Zack Snyder
Writers: Shay Hatten, Joby Harold, Zack Synder
Cast: Theo Rossi, Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Steve Corona, Samantha Win
IMDb Rating: 5.8/10
Trailer: YouTube

In the movie, Las Vegas has been devastated by a zombie outbreak, transforming it into a no-go zone. Scott leads a team of mercenaries on a daring mission to retrieve millions of dollars from a vault under Bly Casino.

Their plan quickly derails as they confront not just swarms of zombies but also unforeseen obstacles trapped within the city’s confines. This movie is rated as the best classic horror movie in Germany in 2021.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film had a production budget estimated between $80 million.
  • Army of the Dead spawned a franchise, including the spin-off prequel Army of Thieves and a direct sequel titled Planet of the Dead.
Watch on Netflix

Easter Eggs & Details You Missed:


21. Rebecca (1940)

Rebecca-(1940)

Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Robert Sherwood, Daphine Maurier, Joan Harrison
Cast: Nigel Bruce, George Sanders, Philip Winter, Bunny Beatty, Reginald Denny.
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie tells the story of Terry Malloy, a former boxer who once threw a fight to please mob boss Johnny Friendly. Terry works on the docks for Friendly’s union, while his smarter brother Charley is Friendly’s trusted aide.

When Terry is tricked into getting a co-worker, Joey Doyle, up to a rooftop under the guise of a simple chat, things take a dark turn. Joey is killed by Friendly’s men, who throw him off the roof.

Terry tries to stand up to Friendly but ends up threatened and paid off to keep quiet. The film delves into the brutal world of union corruption and violence, all shadowed by the mysterious death of Rebecca, the first wife of Maxim de Winter, before the film begins.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Crime inspired the film on the Waterfront, a series of articles published in 1948 by Malcolm Johnson. These articles won the 1949 Pulitzer Prize for Local Reporting.
  • Rebecca was made with a modest budget of approximately $1.29 million, grossing around $6 million.
  • The film received eleven nominations at the 13th Academy Awards, more than any other film that year.
Watch on Roku

CLASSIC HITCHCOCK FILM REVIEW:


22. All About Eve (1950)

All-About-Eve-(1950)

Director: Joseph Mankiewicz
Writers: Mary Orr, Joseph Mankiewicz
Cast: Gary Merrill, George Sanders, Craig Hill, Barbara White, Barbara Bates
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie follows Margo Channing, a Broadway star who just turned 40 and is concerned that her age might impact her career. Along comes Eve Harrington, an eager young fan.

She cleverly works her way into Margo’s life, eventually putting both her career and personal relationships at risk. The film delves into themes of ambition, manipulation, and the intricate dynamics of female relationships in show business.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • All About Eve is based on the 1946 short story (and subsequent 1949 radio drama) The Wisdom of Eve by Mary Orr.
  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $1.4 million and grossed around $8.4 million at the box office.
  • The film received a record 14 nominations at the 23rd Academy Awards, winning six awards, including Best Picture.
Watch on Amazon

Essential Films:


23. The Apartment (1960)

The-Apartment-(1960)

Director: Billy Wilder
Writers: A. L. Diamond, Billy Wilder
Cast: Jack Lemmon, Jack Kruschen, Bill Baldwin, Paul Bradley, Hope Holiday
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Trailer: YouTube

Bud is a lonely officer who works at an insurance corporation till late at night. He has given out his mansion to other executives to be used for extramarital affairs to raise his business. The Apartment is one of the best classic movies in Germany for those who love romantic comedies.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, and Jack Kruschen were Oscar-nominated.
  • The Apartment was made with a modest budget of approximately $3 million, the film grossed around $24.6 million at the box office.
Watch on Tubi TV

Screenwriting Masterclass:


24. Vertigo (1958)

Vertigo-(1958)

Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Samuel Taylor, Pierre Boileau, Alec Coppel
Cast: Henry Jones, James Stewart, Tom Helmore, Kim Novak, Raymond Baile
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie follows John Scottie Ferguson, a former police detective who retired because of his severe fear of heights and vertigo, which makes him feel like he’s spinning. He’s hired by an old friend, Gavin Elster, to secretly watch his wife, Madeleine, because she’s acting oddly.

Filmed in San Francisco, California, and other iconic locations like Mission San Juan Bautista and Big Basin Redwoods State Park, this was the first movie to feature the dolly zoom. This camera trick, known as the Vertigo effect,” plays with perspective to mimic Scottie’s fear of heights, creating a sense of disorientation for the viewer.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Vertigo was made with a modest budget of approximately $2.5 million, the film grossed around $7.3 million at the box office.
  • Vertigo is now commonly ranked among Alfred Hitchcock’s magnum opus and one of the greatest films of all time.
  • In 1989, it was one of the first 25 films selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the United States National Film Registry.
Watch on Amazon

Ending Explained:

If you’re looking to watch the best classic movies in order, you can find them on platforms such as Netflix, Max, or Amazon Prime. Should you face any geo-restrictions, using ExpressVPN—the best VPN for streaming in Germany—will help you access the movies with ease. Enjoy your viewing!


25. An Affair to Remember (1957)

An-Affair-to-Remember-(1957)

Director: Leo McCarey
Writers: Leo McCarey, Delmer Daves, Mildred Cram
Cast: Richard Denning, Carry Grant, Deborah Kerr, Mary Carroll Bain
IMDb Ratings: 7.4/10
Trailer: YouTube

In the movie, Nickie Ferrante, a famous playboy, and Terry McKay, a professional singer, meet on the SS Constitution, a transatlantic ocean liner. Both are already in relationships with others.

As they travel, they become good friends and promise to meet again at the Empire State Building in six months if they can end their current relationships and start new careers. But when the time comes, unforeseen events disrupt their planned reunion, leading to an unexpected twist.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film was made with a modest budget of approximately $2.1 million, grossing around $3.85 million in U.S. and Canada rentals.
  • According to the American Film Institute, the film is considered one of the most romantic films of all time.
Watch on Amazon

She Died 15 Years Ago, Now Deborah Kerr’s Daughter Confirms the Rumors:


26. How to Steal a Million (1966)

How-to-Steal-a-Million-(1966)

Director: William Wyler
Writers: Harry Kurnitz, George Bradshaw
Cast: Remy Longa , Edward Malin, Marcel Dalio, Jacques Marin, Pierre Mirat
IMDb rating: 7.5/10
Trailer: YouTube

Set in Paris, the film follows Charles Bonnet, an art collector who forges famous artworks. His daughter Nicole, always worried he’ll be caught, encounters burglar Simon Dermott in their home one night.

After a mishap with an antique gun, Nicole, hoping to protect her father’s secret, drives the injured Simon to his hotel rather than calling the police.

As Charles plans to lend a forged Venus statuette to a museum, Nicole and Simon team up to steal it before it undergoes scientific testing that would expose the forgery. How to Steal a Million is one of the best classic movies on Netflix.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The film features a memorable scene at the Empire State Building, which has become iconic in romantic cinema.
  • The film had a production budget of approximately $6.4 million and grossed around $4.4 million in U.S. rentals.
Watch on Amazon

Making Of:


27. What Ever Happened To Baby Jane? (1962)

What-Ever-Happened-To-Baby-Jane-(1962)

Director: Robert Aldrich
Writer: Heller, Henry Farrell
Cast: Anna Lee, Bert Freed, Dave Willock, Michael Fox, Barbara Merrill,
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie tracks the story of Baby Jane Hudson, a once-famous child star, as she lives in an old Hollywood mansion with her sister Blanche, a former movie star who is now paralyzed. Set against a scene of lost splendor and intense sibling competition.

The film reveals how Jane cruelly dominates Blanche. As Jane’s fame dwindles and Blanche withdraws further, their haunting history comes back to light, building up to a shocking conclusion. The movie is one of the best horror movies with masterful performances.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? was made with a modest budget of approximately $980,000, and the film grossed around $9 million in U.S. rentals.
  • The film is acclaimed for its psychologically driven black comedy, camp, and creation of the psycho-biddy subgenre.
Watch on Amazon

Analyzing Evil:


28. Titanic (1997)

Titanic-(1997)

Director: James Cameron
Writer: James Cameron
Cast: Billy Zane, Frances Fisher, Gloria Stuart, Suez Amis, Danny Nucci
IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10
Trailer: YouTube

Titanic brings to life the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912 through a captivating love story. Jack Dawson, is a free-spirited artist who falls in love with Rose DeWitt Bukater, a high-society woman.

Set against the doomed ship’s maiden voyage, their romance blossoms amid moments of tragedy, sacrifice, and the fight for survival.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Titanic was the most expensive film ever made at the time, with a production budget of $200 million.
  • It became the first film to reach the billion-dollar mark, grossing over $2.264 billion worldwide.
  • The film received 14 Academy Award nominations and won 11, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Watch on Paramount Plus

Top 10 Facts:


29. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Brokeback-Mountain-(2005)

Director: Ang Lee
Writers: Diana Ossana, Annie Proulx, Larry McMurtry
Cast: Duval Lang, Anne Hathaway, Dean Barett, Michelle Williams, Randy Quaid
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Trailer: YouTube

Based on Annie Proulx’s 1997 short story, the film Brokeback Mountain tells the story of two American cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist. Set in the American West from 1963 to 1983, it explores their deep and complex romance.

Against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming and the weight of societal expectations, their forbidden love story unfolds. The film poignantly portrays their longing, emotional struggles, and the harsh impact of societal norms on their lives.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • Brokeback Mountain was made with a modest budget of approximately $14 million; the film grossed over $178 million worldwide, making it a commercial success.
  • At the 78th Academy Awards, it won three Oscars: Best DirectorBest Adapted Screenplay, and Original Score.
Watch on Amazon

Hidden Meaning:


30. The Philadelphia Story (1940)

The-Philadelphia-Story-(1940)

Directors: George Cukor
Writers: Philip Barry, Waldon Salt, Donald Stewart
Cast: John Howard, Roland Young, Lionel Pape, King Baggot, Rex Evans, Mary Nash
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Trailer: YouTube

The movie centers on Tracy Lord, a rich socialite from Philadelphia, who once divorced her husband, C.K. Dexter Haven, because he couldn’t live up to her high expectations. Now, as Tracy gets ready to marry the affluent George Kittredge, her wedding plans hit a snag.

Her ex-husband and a magazine journalist both show up unexpectedly. The film skillfully delves into themes of love, class, and the intricate nature of relationships, all set against a glamorous backdrop.

Lesser Know Facts:

  • The Philadelphia Story was made with a modest budget of approximately $914,000, and the film grossed around $3.3 million.
  • Nominated for six Academy Awards, the film won two: James Stewart for Best Actor and Donald Ogden Stewart for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Watch on Tubi TV

Katharine Hepburn – Philadelphia Story:


31. The Sound Of Music (1965)

The-Sound-Of-Music-(1965)

Director: Robert Wise
Writer: Ernest Lehman
Cast: Julie Andrews, Peggy Wood, Anna Lee, Portia Nelson, Charmiancarr, Kym Karath
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Trailer: YouTube

Maria has always opted to become a nun. But this becomes an issue due to her lack of discipline. The mother sends her to a retired Captain to care for seven children. The Sound of Music is among the must see classic movies due to its many elements of interest in the romance genre.

So, this was our list of the best classic movies in Germany that are golden even in the current day and age. We hope you’ll enjoy watching them. Happy Binging!

Lesser Know Facts:

  •  The film had a budget of approximately $8.2 million. Its box office success was remarkable, grossing over $286 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of its time.
  • The film is based on the true story of the Von Trapp family, who escaped Nazi-ruled Austria in 1938.
  • The Sound of Music dominated the 1965 Academy Awards, winning Oscars for Best Picture, Director, Score Adaptation, and Editing.
Watch on Disney Plus

Things In The Sound Of Music You Never Noticed As A Kid:


Other Guides to Explore

  1. Watch Harry Potter Movies in Order: Magical Journey from Boy to Hero across eight films.
  2. Watch Thor Movies in Order: Thunderous saga of a god’s battle for Asgard and Earth.
  3. Watch Underworld Movies in Order: Vampires and werewolves clash in an eternal supernatural war.
  4. Watch Annabelle Movies in Order: Spine-chilling progression of a possessed doll’s terrifying hauntings.
  5. Watch Twilight Movies in Order: Romantic tale of a vampire, human, and werewolf love triangle.
  6. Watch Jurassic Park Movies in Order: Prehistoric adventures escalate in this thrilling dinosaur saga.

FAQs

Classic movies are a reflection of the social, political, and cultural contexts of their time. They can provide valuable insights into historical eras, societal norms, and the evolution of filmmaking.

Foreign classic films can often be accessed with subtitles through various streaming platforms that offer international selections. Look for services that specialize in classic and arthouse cinema. You might face geo-restriction in Germany, but when you have ExpressVPN, the region blockage is no barrier.

Classic movies have significantly influenced modern cinema, from storytelling techniques to cinematography and genre conventions. They serve as a foundation for understanding film history and inspire contemporary filmmakers.


Conclusion

Reflecting on the timeless allure of 31 Best Classic Movies in Germany, I’ve curated diverse cinematic masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences decades after their initial release.

These films, each a significant cultural artifact, offer a window into bygone eras, showcasing storytelling and filmmaking techniques that have shaped the industry. As I recommend these classics, it’s clear that their legacy endures, influencing contemporary cinema.

Whether revisiting a beloved favorite or discovering a gem for the first time, classic movies offer an enchanting experience that transcends time.

Lily Bart

Lily Bart is your guide to the streaming universe. Let her help you navigate the world of entertainment with passion and insight into thrilling sports events, the hottest movies and so much more! From riveting documentaries to captivating series, Lily unravels stories that transcend screens. Join the journey through a multitude of genres, where every click reveals a new adventure.

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