Watch The Harmonists

Set in Germany in the 1920s and 1930s, The Harmonists is a captivating musical drama that tells the true story of the Comedian Harmonists, an ensemble of six young men who became one of the most acclaimed vocal groups in Europe before being silenced by the rise of the Nazi regime. The group, formed in Berlin in 1927, consisted of five singers and a pianist, all of whom came from different backgrounds and had different personalities. The lead singer, Harry Frommermann (Ben Becker), was a Jewish musician who had a passion for classical music and dreamed of creating a vocal group that would blend the rhythms of jazz and swing with the harmonies of Bach and Mozart. The other members of the group included tenor Robert Biberti (Heino Ferch), baritone Erich Collin (Ulrich Noethen), bass Ari Leschnikoff (Max Tidof), baritone Roman Cycowski (Kai Wiesinger), and pianist Erwin Bootz (Meret Becker).

As the Harmonists started performing in clubs and cabarets all over Germany, they quickly gained a reputation for their unique style and energy. Combining popular songs and classical pieces with their own arrangements and witty stage antics, they captivated audiences of all ages and backgrounds. However, their success was not without challenges. They faced constant music industry politics, tensions within the group, and personal struggles, including Harry's difficult relationship with his family and his own identity as a Jew in a country that was increasingly hostile to Jews.

The Harmonists' fortunes took a turn for the worse with the rise of the Nazi party in the early 1930s. As the group's popularity continued to grow, they faced increasing pressure to conform to the Nazi ideology and to stop performing songs by Jewish composers. As the political situation in Germany deteriorated, the Harmonists faced a difficult choice: to compromise their beliefs and their integrity for the sake of their careers, or to stick to their principles and risk losing everything.

The movie does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere of the times, with vivid depictions of Berlin's vibrant music scene, the rise of fascism, and the struggles of ordinary people trying to cope with an uncertain future. The cast is outstanding, with Ben Becker giving a powerful performance as the passionate and tormented Harry, and Heino Ferch, Ulrich Noethen, and the rest of the cast bringing to life the personalities and quirks of the other members of the group. The musical numbers are a highlight of the movie, showcasing the Harmonists' unique style and the sheer joy of their performances.

Overall, The Harmonists is a moving and inspiring drama about music, friendship, and the human spirit. It shows how even in the darkest of times, art can bring people together and inspire hope and courage. Despite its tragic ending, the movie leaves us with a sense of admiration for the Comedian Harmonists and their legacy, and a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders and unite people.