Where to start
Das Boot
2 versions · originally a film, 1981
Themes: Claustrophobia, Survival, Futility of War, Camaraderie, Isolation.
Das Boot masterfully captures the claustrophobic tension and psychological erosion of life aboard a German U-boat during war.
✦ Most fans start here
Das Boot (1981)
The original movie
✦ Start hereDas Boot
Film · 1981
The 1981 movie version is the definitive cinematic experience, condensing the harrowing hunt for Allied ships into a tight, visceral thriller that emphasizes the crew’s desperate struggle for survival.
1985 series
Das Boot
Wolfgang Petersen · Series · 1985
The 1985 TV version expands the narrative scope, offering a more deliberate look at the daily lives of the captain and crew as they navigate the Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters.
Common questions
What order should I watch Das Boot in?
You can start with the 1981 movie Das Boot to experience the original cinematic version. If you want a more expansive narrative, the 1985 television series Das Boot provides a significantly longer cut of the same story and production.
Is the 1985 Das Boot television series different from the 1981 movie?
Yes, the 1985 television series Das Boot is an extended version of the 1981 movie. It utilizes the original source material to provide a longer runtime, offering a more detailed look at the events depicted in the film.
How long is the 1981 Das Boot movie compared to the 1985 series?
The 1981 movie Das Boot is a feature-length film, while the 1985 television series Das Boot is a longer adaptation. The series version expands upon the movie, allowing for a more comprehensive presentation of the story through its increased duration.
Should I watch the movie or the television series of Das Boot first?
If you prefer a condensed cinematic experience, start with the 1981 movie Das Boot. If you are looking for the most complete version of the production, the 1985 television series Das Boot is the extended adaptation of the original work.