Das Boot (The Boat)

Wolfgang Peterson, 1981, Germany (8.9*)

This gripping war drama follows the tension aboard a German U-boat throughout World War II. This has to be the most involving and well-made submarine film of all time, nominated for six Oscars®. Of course it's a bit claustrophobic, as we seldom get fresh air, just like the crew. Sometimes when you expose yourself in wartime, all hell breaks loose.

Successful worldwide, it was also a six-hour miniseries in Germany. Six hours seems a bit long however; the only fault with this theatrical version is perhaps it's length, a bit long at over three hours. The cast, led by Jurgen Prochnow as the Captain, could not be better; and Peterson first wanted Paul Newman for the role!