Ep 6. Episode 6

From what we know Babylon Berlin is a German neo-noir television series created, written and directed by Tom Tykwer, Achim von Borries, and Hendrik Handloegten. All seasons of Babylon Berlin have received critical acclaim, particularly for its cinematography and production design, as well as its historical authenticity and its performances.

Episode 6 of Babylon Berlin season 3 is the sixth installment of the much-celebrated German neo-noir series. The episode opens with a nerve-racking storyline that will keep the viewer hooked until the end. The narrative picks up pace and pushes forward with back-to-back events, exploring the hyper-realistic world of the show.

In this episode, we continue to follow the ever-tangling threads of the investigation behind the train explosion and the simultaneous arrest of Kardakow, with Rath and Charlotte simultaneously trying to stay on top of the situation amidst all the chaos and political upheaval. Rath continues his relationship with Helga, trying to gain information and leads from her, while also reconnecting with his estranged brother, Anno.

Throughout the episode, the viewer is taken on an exciting and thrilling journey, as various flashbacks and memories reveal new information and keep the plot thickening. The team handling the investigation starts to face the real backbone of the situation- corruption at the highest levels of the government, with all the power play that goes with it. As the story progresses, we also delve deeper into the shady politics and backroom deals that cause the downfall of the Weimar Republic and explain the rise of National Socialism in Germany.

Amidst all the intricacies of the main story, the episode showcases multiple smaller threads that add depth to the world of the show. We finally see Gereon and his colleagues back in the Vice Squad, with a new case that exposes them to the underworld of decadence, drug-use, and sex-workers that were prevalent during that time. At the same time, Charlotte gets involved with the new political mastermind, Fritz Hartmann, and gains a behind-the-scenes look at the rough and tumble world of German politics.

One of the most surprising plot points of this episode is the relationship between Charlotte and Fritz Hartmann, which starts off on a relatively friendly note but quickly takes a turn for the worst, exposing the complex nature of politics. As the threads of the story begin to intertwine, all the characters are taken on a path that leads them towards their inevitable fates. There’s a sense that everything has begun to unravel and yet, the investigation carries on into the fray.

Another point worth mentioning is how the show manages to put light on lesser-known historical events of the Weimar Republic while still keeping the viewer entertained and hooked. From Gereon's struggles and PTSD after the Great War, to the spread of perversion and out of control decadence and the rise of the SA, we are given a complete historical commentary of the time.

In conclusion, episode 6 of Babylon Berlin season 3 stands out as a powerful and gripping story that captures the essence of both neo-noir cinema and historical authenticity. It manages to navigate a complex world of politics and corruption while keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat. The production design, the stunning cinematography and the impeccable performances all come together to make a near-perfect television experience.