Iconic Films: Das Boot, 1981.

Das Boot, 1981, is a German war film, written and directed by Wolfgang Peterson. It was the second most expensive German film ever made, behind Metropolis, 1927. The movie was not an overnight success, but it was later nominated for six Academy Awards. Das Boot, would become one of the greatest German war films ever made, and it has only gained in popularity over time. I have never watched the film before, but the iconic movie posters always caught my eye. However, I am glad to have finally put that right, as I can now understand why others love the movie so much.The story begins as war correspondent, Lieutenant Werner Herbert Gronemeyer is assigned to the German submarine U-96. The most powerful character in this film is the Captain, Jurgen Prochnow. He is loyal to his crew, regardless of rank. The Captain also seems to be fighting the war for his comrades, more than any political agenda presented to him. It is interesting to witness the brutality of war from the enemy’s perspective. The movie is a stark reminder, that every person suffered at some point, throughout this tragic event in Earth’s history.  

For three long and terrifying weeks, the Captain and his crew seem to be on the wrong end of a losing battle. The Royal Navy is slowly beginning to take hold of the war at sea. Lieutenant Werner, is our ears and eyes in this film. As he begins to learn more about the crew, we listen to their individual stories. The submarine has a small victory, but many misfortunes follow. The submarine is attacked by a British fighter plane, and they are unable to escape the plane using speed alone. The Captain is eventually forced to submerge the submarine. Unfortunately, the vessel is unable to stop diving, and finally hits the ocean bed. The Captain’s words hit hard, as he proclaims “The gods left a shovel full of sand to keep us up.” It makes me think about religion, as every person looks to a higher power when they are faced with a catastrophe. I am also intrigued how people react in the direst of circumstances. Somehow, against all odds, they can come out with a positive result.

The Captain and his crew, along with some great ingenuity and a lot of luck, finally manage to raise the submarine, and make an escape for freedom yet again. If anyone who is reading this, can explain the significance of the song, “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, it would be much appreciated. Is it to show that music is above division and is enjoyed by everyone?  After reaching their final destination, La Rochelle, France. The crew are relieved that they could survive such an ordeal, only to then find themselves in the middle of an air strike again. The submarine that has served them so well during battle, is now demolished and sunken in front of the Captain’s eyes. The Captain is injured in the strike, collapses and dies in front of Lieutenant Werner. Now, the Lieutenant looks completely different from the fresh-faced correspondent we see in the beginning  of the film. 

This film is wonderful and powerful at the same time. I know I have missed a lot of other great moments to talk about, but every second is worth a mention within this film. I loved the humanity and the dynamics of the crew. We witness a mental breakdown, stories of love in both, the right and wrong scenarios. It’s heartbreaking, that a generation of youths faced such cruel realities. I enjoyed most of the characters, and disliked others. However, that is how reality works in all walks of life. It’s fascinating how we segregate ourselves into groups, when there isn’t that much difference between us, when you look at the human condition. The submarine certainly made me feel just as isolated as the men aboard it. The dialogue and story were superbly crafted, the acting was emotional, and the film was extraordinary in every detail possible. What else can I say? Maybe, I can admit that my words are nowhere near as complex, and as beautiful as the movie. But in my heart, those emotions are as strong as ever. 

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