A gripping Second World War drama that viewers have described as 'mind-blowing' has shattered records on Amazon Prime Video, with audiences urgently recommending others to 'pick up the TV remote' and experience it for themselves.
Record-Breaking Success on Prime Video
The Tank, also known by its German title Der Tiger, premiered on Prime Video on January 2nd and has swiftly become the platform's most-streamed German film to date. Achieving the number one position across 28 different Prime Video countries, this production marks a significant milestone as the first German film produced by Amazon to receive a cinematic release prior to its streaming debut.
A Dangerous Mission on the Eastern Front
The film's narrative is set against the brutal backdrop of the Eastern Front in 1943, following a five-man team as they undertake a perilous rescue mission deep behind enemy lines. This tense premise has captivated audiences, leading to widespread critical acclaim and viewer enthusiasm.
Viewer Reactions: 'Diabolically Entertaining'
On platforms like IMDB, viewers have been effusive in their praise. One commentator wrote: 'Mind blowing. Must watch. It's really difficult to describe without getting into spoiler territory. All I'll say is that things are not what they seem.' They added, 'Excellent anti-war film while being diabolically entertaining. Get off your phone and computer and pick up the damn TV remote. You need to watch this now.'
Another viewer expressed their admiration, stating: 'What a treat. Watch and enjoy. I applaud everyone involved in making this movie. Well done. Once you have seen it you can never forget it.' They highlighted the technical excellence, noting: 'Everything from the writing to direction, camera work, sound etc. are stunning. I understand the people who thought it was a normal war movie may have been a bit stunned but this is far more than that.'
Emotional Depth and Critical Acclaim
A third review emphasised the film's immersive quality: 'The Tiger doesn't just entertain, it pulls you in completely. Easily one of the most gripping and emotionally charged films I've seen recently.' Regarding the film's conclusion, a fourth viewer offered a thoughtful perspective: 'Although many other reviewers say the ending was lacking or was a bad plot twist I think it was the best one they could do.' They elaborated, 'It is my belief that those that are dissatisfied with the ending failed to think upon it and were expecting a dopamine rushing action. But actually the ending gives us a dopamine rushing thought process of the past, actions taken and many regrets. It focused on a man being haunted by his past and trying to cope with it.'
The film is directed by Dennis Gansel, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Colin Teevan.
BBC iPlayer Acquires Acclaimed War Series
In related streaming news, the BBC has secured the rights to a highly praised war series that viewers have hailed as the 'best they've seen in years', describing it as a 'work of art'. The Narrow Road To The Deep North, which originally launched on Amazon Prime in July 2025, is now available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
A Story of Survival and Love
This war drama traces the life of Dorrigo Evans, an Australian army surgeon, across different eras. The narrative begins before the outbreak of World War II, follows his traumatic experiences as a prisoner of war forced to work on the Burma Death Railway, and explores a lifelong love affair with Amy, the young wife of his uncle. The series concludes by examining how these wartime events continued to haunt Dorrigo in his later years.
The cast features Jacob Elordi (known for Saltburn) as Dorrigo, Odessa Young as Amy, and Ciaran Hinds (from The Family Plan). While not a direct true story, the series is inspired by the harrowing experiences of Australian POWs and draws focus from the life of renowned surgeon Edward 'Weary' Dunlop, mirroring the themes of Richard Flanagan's original novel.
Audience Praise for the Series
On Reddit, fans discovering the series on iPlayer have shared their profound reactions. One viewer stated: 'It's a magnificent piece of work in every way. Ciarán Hinds is one of my favourite actors and Jacob Elordi was very good in this. Probably his best work so far. Love the music as well.'
Another commented: 'I found it brilliant and compelling and am now reading the novel by Richard Flanagan, on which this series is based.' A third offered a powerful assessment: 'This series cut so deep I can hardly think of another to compare it to. It's unflinching in its brutality and tragic in its beauty and, whilst being a truly difficult watch at times, rewarding perhaps for being so.'
Together, these two productions underscore a significant public appetite for profound, historically-grounded war dramas that offer both entertainment and deep emotional resonance on major streaming platforms.
