This thesis examines three distinct periods of national film production which occurred during the ongoing period of restructuring and development the nation of Germany underwent throughout the twenty-first century. The goals of such an examination are to discuss the impacts of these film production periods on the processes which helped to shape the modern concept of Germany as it is now understood. Several films have been selected spanning an eight-decade long collection created by various governmental or private powers throughout Germany’s growth. This range will represent a pattern of attempts both of ideological influence and societal reflection throughout key periods in German history, revealing how the medium of film has in Germany both inspired and precipitated actual events and change, as well as reflected cultural identities and societal events. The existence of this pattern, the explanation of which constitutes the focus of this thesis, speaks to a degree of power within the medium of film, that which is significant enough to contribute to the machinations behind the development of a nation in a significant enough way to warrant popular recognition and discussion. This thesis seeks to call attention to the importance of film in the development of national identity, societal progression, and cultural preservation, with Germany and its film history at its focus. The pattern of influence and reflection present within the German films selected for review within this project will be shown to have been intimately connected with key moments of development and history within Germany. Film has established itself as a cultural phenomenon, capable of influencing and reflecting societies in ways unique to the medium. Germany is simply an early example of this medium’s potential.