Kolberg

Kolberg

Year: 1945

Runtime: 110 mins

Language: German

Director: Veit Harlan

DramaHistoryWar

During Napoleon’s victorious campaign in Germany, the city of Kolberg finds itself cut off from the retreating Prussian army. Undeterred, its citizens rally together, refusing to surrender and mounting an organized resistance against the French forces, which promptly unleash a massive artillery barrage on the city.

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Timeline – Kolberg (1945)

Trace every key event in Kolberg (1945) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Breslau 1813: crowds and citizen defences

The film opens in 1813 with Prussian Landwehr and volunteers marching through Breslau amid enthusiastic crowds. King Frederick William III and Count August von Gneisenau discuss the recent events, underscoring that the defense of Kolberg under siege demonstrated the power of citizen armies.

1813 Breslau
2

Vienna 1806: abdication of Francis II

In Vienna, the last Holy Roman Emperor Francis II abdicates, signaling a reshaping of German politics. Gneisenau condemns the move, calling him an Emperor who abandoned the German people in their hour of need.

1806 Vienna
3

Kolberg 1806: townsfolk debate the future

Back in Kolberg, inhabitants debate Napoleon's announcements and the implications for their town. Some see French victories as a net positive, while others fear surrender and loss of independence. Nettelbeck remains steadfast in resisting the French.

1806 Kolberg
4

Nettelbeck forms a citizen militia

Nettelbeck organizes a citizen militia, gathering supplies and mobilizing ordinary townspeople. He opposes the regular Prussian army's surrender plans and pushes for a determined defense of Kolberg.

1806 Kolberg
5

Threat of execution and a desperate plea for leadership

Facing threatened execution by the military, Nettelbeck concludes that Kolberg can be saved only if a great leader emerges. He sends Maria, a farmer's daughter, on a dangerous mission to Königsberg to reach the king and queen.

1806 Kolberg
6

Maria travels to Königsberg

Maria undertakes a perilous journey to Königsberg to plead with the royal court. Her purpose is to secure intervention to defend Kolberg, risking her safety along the way.

1806 Königsberg
7

Queen Louise is approached

Maria meets the Queen, Louise, who holds the key to unlocking royal support. Through her, the plan is set in motion to bring Gneisenau to Kolberg.

1806 Königsberg
8

Gneisenau takes command

Gneisenau confronts Nettelbeck and emerges as the top leader. He joins forces with the army and the citizens, coordinating a united effort to defend the city.

1806 Kolberg
9

Kolberg's defense and the French retreat

With new leadership, Kolberg resists the French siege and ultimately survives as they retreat. The film emphasizes the power of citizen resolve and concerted action in turning the tide.

1806 Kolberg
10

Return to 1813 after Tauroggen

The narrative returns to 1813 after the Convention of Tauroggen, with the war against Napoleon looming anew. Napoleon is depicted as having been defeated in Russia, prompting Prussian leaders to consider bold action.

1813
11

Gneisenau pushes the king toward action

Gneisenau convinces Frederick William to confront Napoleon and act decisively. He persuades the king to rally the nation behind a renewed war for liberation.

1813 Prussia (Berlin)
12

An Mein Volk: the proclamation to begin the Wars of Liberation

Frederick William writes and issues the proclamation An Mein Volk, signaling the start of the Wars of Liberation. The act unifies Prussia and sets the stage for a broader call to arms against Napoleon.

1813 Berlin, Prussia

Last Updated: October 05, 2025 at 11:22

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Movies about citizen resistance like Kolberg

Ordinary people unite against an overwhelming military force in a desperate stand.Explore movies like Kolberg where ordinary citizens rise up against an invader. If you enjoyed the story of civic defiance and strategic resistance against overwhelming odds, you'll find similar historical epics and war dramas focused on the power of collective courage.

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Stories in this thread typically follow a pattern of invasion, initial despair, and the subsequent rallying of a civilian population. The narrative charts their journey from fear to organized defiance, focusing on the logistical and emotional challenges of holding out against a siege, often leading to a pivotal battle or negotiation that determines their fate.

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The narrative pattern involves placing characters in a deeply challenging, often life-threatening situation. Despite the pervasive grimness and high tension, the story consistently highlights acts of bravery, unity, and strategic success. The emotional journey moves from dread to determination, culminating in an ending that validates the struggle and reinforces the hopeful theme.

Why These Movies?

These films are united by their specific emotional mix: they do not shy away from the brutality of their subject matter, yet they are ultimately defined by an optimistic core. The pacing is often steady, building tension methodically towards a cathartic and positive resolution, making the hopeful ending feel earned rather than facile.

Unlock the Full Story of Kolberg

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Kolberg Summary

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Kolberg Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Kolberg

Kolberg Spoiler-Free Summary

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Kolberg Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Kolberg

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