Die Welle (The Wave) (2008)

Social theories are often fictionalised, whether that be within film or literature, but for it be executed effectively, to create an engaging piece of fiction, the work has to provide more than just thought-provoking social commentary. This is where ‘The ‘Wave’ falls short. The themes of dictatorship and connections to the Nazi party, especially as the film takes place in Germany, make for an interesting political discussion however, the director does not utilise the film medium to elevate the ‘The Wave’ beyond this. There are no clever uses of sound or cinematography to portray the issues and concepts he is trying to communicate, wasting this visual form. The characters and their backgrounds, or lack off, feel cliché and like mere accessories to film’s politics. Additionally, the pacing of the narrative feels rushed; the students unrealistically form a cult-like alliance under their teacher Rainer’s rule after only one lesson. Ultimately, whilst ‘The Wave’ presents an interesting topic for debate, it fails to fulfil the purpose of a film: communicating ideas and eliciting audience response via audio and visual means.