Watch Kuntergrau

Kuntergrau is a German-language drama series that was first released in 2016 on Dekkoo, an online streaming platform that offers queer content. The show has a total of twenty-three episodes, which were helmed by different directors. It features Fabian Freist as Marcel, an openly gay young man who is part of a close-knit group of friends who live in Cologne, Germany.

The series starts with Marcel moving to Cologne to start a new chapter of his life after coming out to his parents. He quickly meets other LGBTQ+ individuals who are part of a tight-knit support group, including his best friend Leopold, who is secretly in love with him. Marcel also harbors feelings for his childhood friend Nico, who is straight but seems to be struggling with his own sexuality.

As the series progresses, Kuntergrau explores the different challenges and experiences that LGBTQ+ individuals face in Germany, including discrimination, hate crimes, coming out, navigating dating and relationships, and mental health issues. The show also tackles more complex issues such as drug addiction, HIV and AIDS, and the use of dating apps.

One of the significant themes that run throughout the series is the emphasis on chosen family and the importance of finding a supportive community, especially for those who may not have familial support. The characters often turn to each other for comfort, advice, and a sense of belonging. Kuntergrau also highlights the diverse experiences and identities within the LGBTQ+ community, showing that there is no singular queer experience.

The show's strength lies in its realism and authenticity, which is conveyed through its naturalistic performances, grounded and nuanced writing, and organic direction. Kuntergrau doesn't shy away from depicting the darker aspects of being queer in Germany, but it does so without being exploitative or sensationalistic. Instead, it offers a balanced and nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences that is both relatable and informative.

Another notable aspect of the show is its visual style, which features muted colors, minimalistic framing, and natural lighting. These production choices complement the show's tone and themes, and add to its realism and grittiness. The show's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of German indie pop and electronic music that sets the mood for each scene.

Kuntergrau's episodic format allows for a rich and diverse range of stories and characters. The show is structured in a way that each episode focuses on a specific character or issue, while also advancing the overall plot and character arcs. This approach keeps the show fresh and engaging, while also allowing for deeper character development and exploration.

In conclusion, Kuntergrau is a powerful, heartfelt, and nuanced drama series that offers a realistic and relatable portrayal of queer life in Germany. With its diverse cast of characters, engaging storytelling, and authentic production, the show has become a significant landmark in German queer culture. It is a must-see for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ representation in media, and a testament to the power of queer storytelling.

Kuntergrau is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (15 episodes). The series first aired on June 3, 2015.