As a native Berliner who still recalls the last remaining ruins of WWII, I found this Historical Drama series to be not only authentic in all aspects, but also very moving in its portrayal of individual characters. Most of the story takes place at a time where most people were certain the War was nearing its end. Despite dutifully exchanging the obligatory Hitler greeting in formal settings, many no longer shared the vision of Germany dominating the World, but instead secretly wishing for "the enemy" (namely the Americans) to finish it all, so everyone could somehow rise from the rubble.
The legendary Charite Hospital is caught in the middle of the political turmoil, constantly deluged with ever changing "orders" from the Fuehrer. The most outstanding characters are the Hospital administrator/world-renowned surgeon Prof. Dr. Sauerbruch and his equally talented wife, who quietly aid the resistance, all the while honoring their hippocratic oath. When in one scene, directives from the highest office dictated that all doctors and nurses should receive fire arms to face the approaching allied forces, the messenger had to endure a very verbal and unmistakable refusal of such orders. "Am I to operate with a gun in my hand?"
Quite disturbing was the fact, that some of the very young people, even school children, appeared to be so entranced by the Nazi vision, that in the face of certain death, they would nonetheless march through the streets to shoot on sight anyone who capitulates or shares any other political view. High officers knew better, and for the most part chose suicide over capture.
A variety of character studies enhance the story. To me, the best lines of dialog came from Head Nurse Kate. With her endearing, thick Berlin dialect she would deliver the most profound and witty observations. Here are some samplings: "Child, be glad we're at war, because after it's all over, it sure will get less comfortable!' - "Whoever isn't dead yet, has only himself to blame, because there sure have been enough bombs dropped." - "Don't you act so innocent, you knew exactly what was going on!" - "Keep your head up high, even if the neck is dirty!"
Most eye witnesses to one of the darkest hours in Germany's History are no longer with us. Through documents and the arts, we are privileged to learn and never forget this part of history. Even then, our better angels prevailed and lifted humanity up from such a deep fall. We shall live, and learn, and appreciate the suffering and the hard work of those who came before us, that our children and grandchildren may live a more fulfilled life in love and in peace.
Television Drama just doesn't get any better than this!
