The Wave

The Wave (2008) is a thought-provoking and unsettling drama that explores the dangers of groupthink and the ease with which democratic values can be undermined. Set in present-day Germany, the film tells the story of a high school teacher named Rainer Wenger who, in an attempt to educate his students about the dangers of dictatorship, begins an experiment that spirals out of control. Wenger's experiment, known as "The Wave," is intended to demonstrate how easily a dictatorship can rise to power. He begins by imposing strict rules and discipline on his students, demanding that they address him as "Herr Wenger" and wear a uniform of white shirts and jeans. At first, the students are hesitant, but soon they begin to embrace the experiment, attracted by the sense of belonging and purpose it offers. As The Wave gains momentum, however, it becomes clear that something is going terribly wrong. The students begin to police each other, enforcing discipline and uniformity with increasing ferocity. They start to reject anyone who doesn't fit in, ostracizing those who dare to question their methods or challenge their authority. Despite its sinister undertones, The Wave proves irresistible to many of the students, who find themselves swept up in its seductive power. Even those who initially resisted the experiment soon find themselves caught up in its thrall. As The Wave grows more powerful and invasive, it becomes clear that Rainer Wenger has unleashed a force beyond his control - one that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.

You can stream The Wave on: Apple TV Amazon Store

Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as The Wave include Shutter Island, Coherence, Memories of Murder, Prisoners, Margin Call, The Lookout.

The Wave was released in theaters on March 18, 2008.