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Parents' Guide to

Das Boot

By Martin Brown, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 17+

Slow and steady WWII drama aims for depth over flair.

TV Hulu Drama 2018
Das Boot Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

Joshjenlap
Joshjenlap Adult
December 24, 2021
age 18+

Heavy Content

This film is exceptional. Captivating story, excellent casting, believable acting, intelligent dialog, and solid character development. The story is not spoon fed to you, and the director uses the scenes and expressions (not always words) to tell a very dramatic story. Although I have nothing but praise for this series, it is emotionally hard to watch. It shows the war for what it was, the occupation of France, the persecution of the Jews, and the brutality of the Nazis. I must also mention that there are two rape scenes that were hard for me to watch. In both cases the victims die, and in one case it is gang rape. Not sure why the director felt it was necessary to include these scenes. I’m glad I was alone when I watched this because I could not have watched it next to my wife or children. In some ways, this series is like watching Schindler’s List. This series is for adults. Even mature teens don’t have enough life experiences to put this film in context.
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What's the Story?

When one of their submarines is destroyed by American forces, the German army must send a new U-boat with an inexperienced crew to complete its mission. Meanwhile, German interpreter Simone Strasser (Vicky Krieps) discovers her enlisted brother is working with the French resistance, and her loyalty is tested from both sides.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

The subject of the French resistance in World War II is ripe for a new audience, both because of its inherently dramatic stories of high-stakes espionage and because of how often the events of the war come up in contemporary political discussion. Das Boot is demanding of its viewers--in addition to the subtitles and deep cast to keep track of, it moves at a slow, steady, submarine's pace -- but, like other recent historical dramas like Chernobyl or Catch-22, it promises a similar dramatic (and relevant) payoff.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about World War II. What is the historical context in which Das Boot takes place? What was going on during the war at this time? What ideology does the German army represent? What does the French resistance represent?

  • Who are you rooting for on Das Boot? Why? What do the characters do that makes you like or dislike them?

  • What do you learn about submarines from Das Boot? What are the obstacles to commanding a submarine? To living on a submarine? How do the soldiers deal with these obstacles?

TV Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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