Frequently, in the introductions to these features for learning German with film, I mention how you may already be familiar with the actor from their work in English-language cinema. But for Tom Wlaschiha, it’s a major highlight. Among his numerous roles in English, he has been Jaqen H’ghar in Game of Thrones, Dmitri Antonov in Stranger Things, and Detective Sebastian Berger on Crossing Lines.
But Wlaschiha’s work in German is just as compelling. So this month, let’s practice German with the films and television of Tom Wlaschiha!
Get to Know Tom Wlaschiha
Thomas Wlaschiha was born on June 20, 1973, in Dohna, East Germany. He grew up in Neustadt in Sachsen, located just east of Dresden. As a teenager, he spent a year as an exchange student in the United States. Upon his return, he studied acting at the University of Music and Theatre Leipzig.
A Dark Fairy Tale: Krabat
Viewers are transported to another world in the 2008 fantasy film Krabat, based upon author Otfried Preußler’s 1971 children’s book of the same name.
In the story set during the Great Northern War (1700-1721), Krabat (portrayed by David Kross) is a 14-year-old beggar. He finds refuge at a mill and befriends Tonda (Daniel Brühl). But the work is hard and dangerous.
Through his apprenticeship, he discovers a secret world of dark magic and sorcery. The power the magic gives Krabat is hard to pass up. But everything comes at a price.
Wlaschiha portrays Hanzo, another apprentice at the mill.
Where to Watch
Language Learning Focus
This film is excellent for practicing the narrative past tense (Präteritum) and fantasy-related vocabulary. Because it is based on a famous children’s book, the dialogue is often clear and slightly more formal, making it a good bridge for intermediate learners.
High-Stakes Thriller: Berlin Falling
The directing debut of actor Ken Duken (who also stars in the film), 2017’s Berlin Falling is a thriller.
Duken portrays Frank, a man in the midst of a contentious divorce, in a rush to reach Berlin to see his daughter. Reluctantly, he picks up a hitchhiker named Andreas (Wlaschiha).
It proves a fateful mistake. Andreas soon hijacks the ride and begins issuing Frank orders. Andreas wants to carry out a terrorist attack in Berlin and has a bag containing a bomb with him.
Where to Watch
Language Learning Focus
This is a “bottle film” set mostly inside a car, which means the dialogue is intense, conversational, and direct. It’s a great way to hear imperatives (commands) and colloquial German as the tension between the two characters rises.
Historical Drama & Intrigue: Das Boot
Following in the roots of its predecessor, the 1981 film of the same name, Das Boot is a 2018 television series set during World War II. The action focuses on a U-boat, or submarine, crew in late 1942 that is sent on a dangerous and secretive mission.
Meanwhile, on land, the crew member’s sister, Simone, the sister of a crew member portrayed by Vicky Krieps, is torn between her ties to both Germany and France.
Wlaschiha portrays Gestapo investigator Hagen Forster, who asks Simone to serve as his translator.
Where to Watch
Language Learning Focus
Focus on formal address and military terminology. Wlaschiha’s role as a Gestapo official involves a lot of bureaucratic and authoritative language. Additionally, since his character uses a translator, you can observe how complex ideas are simplified or shifted between German and French.
Elevate Your German with Tom Wlaschiha
Tom Wlaschiha’s career is a testament to the versatility of German actors on the world stage. Whether he is playing a mysterious assassin in Westeros or a calculated investigator in occupied France, his performances provide a rich resource for language learners to hear different dialects, registers, and historical contexts. By watching these films, you aren’t just improving your listening skills; you’re getting a front-row seat to some of the best modern German storytelling.
Practice, practice, practice! Discover more German actors and actresses previously featured.
Top photo by Sercan Sevindik, from Agentur Hübchen. This post contains affiliate links.
