Ralf Bohnke, mehrfach vorbestraft, hat sich eine bürgerliche Existenz als Sachbuchautor aufgebaut. Seine Frau Marianne leidet schon seit Jahren darunter, dass sie für ihren Mann nur noch Hausfrau, Sekretärin, Telefonistin und Blitzableiter ist. Er flirtet eifrig mit fremden Frauen. Gerade hat er sich in Marlies Schmauch, seine Lektorin, verliebt und sie sich in ihn. Bei einer übermütigen Spritztour auf Ralfs Motorboot, wobei er hofft, ihr näherzukommen und sie auf gemeinsame Tage in Warnemünde einstimmen zu können, kommt es zur Katastrophe: Ralf überfährt einen badenden Jungen im Wasser. Die beiden flüchten, anstatt den Schwimmer zu retten.
If there’s one show that has stood the test of time in the world of crime dramas, it’s undoubtedly Tatort. First airing on November 29, 1970, this German-language police procedural television series has become a staple in households across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Broadcasted on major channels like ARD, ORF 2, and SF1, Tatort has produced over 1200 episodes across its remarkable 55 seasons. Each episode is distinctively crafted by various regional broadcasters, showcasing unique settings and local customs while maintaining a thread of gripping crime-solving narratives.
One of the most compelling aspects of Tatort is its commitment to character depth and development. The format allows for feature-length episodes averaging around 90 minutes each—far longer than typical weekly dramas—which affords viewers an immersive experience into the lives of its protagonists. From iconic inspectors like Schimanski to contemporary favorites navigating complex cases in bustling cities or quiet towns, viewers get a multi-dimensional view of not just the crimes but the cultures surrounding them. This emphasis on character makes it easy for audiences to connect with their stories and invest emotionally in their fates.
The collaborative production model behind Tatort is another reason for its phenomenal longevity and success. Each participating regional TV station contributes uniquely styled episodes featuring different teams of inspectors solving crimes in their own cities—from scenic Vienna to vibrant Berlin—showcasing local architecture and dialects as integral parts of the plotline. This approach not only enriches each episode but also fosters a sense of community among viewers who may recognize their own locales being portrayed onscreen.