Set in Hamburg, Germany, during an anti-Nazi swing movement in the 1930s, Swing Kids shines a light on small part of a much larger history. The love of British fashion, American music, and foreign slang becomes an underground movement in defiance of Hitler’s rule. This film is a work of fiction that illustrates what teenagers would have had to endure under these circumstances, that is for the most part, historically accurate. It focuses on three teenage “Swing Kids”, who ultimately make the choice between the Third Reich and their friendship.
During this time, Hitler banned American swing music because it posed a great threat to German culture. Since it was foreign, its influence on children could have resulted in a Nazi resistance, these
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Peter accidentally scratches Arvid’s record, so he attempts to steal a radio to make it up to him. He is unfortunately caught in act and choses the HJ over a work camp. Thomas enlists so that Peter won’t be alone.
Once a member of the HJ, the men are ordered to spy on their friends and family. There is immense pressure to report anything the goes against the Socialist Party’s principles, no matter the person. For example, Thomas turns his father in for defending his Jewish colleagues thus insulting Hitler, and is essentially the cause of his death. However, Peter is asked to spy on his boss at the bookstore, but after finding incriminating items he keeps it to himself. These contrasting reactions is an example of how Nazi persuasion is testing loyalties and driving friends apart.
Additionally, Arvid, not in the HJ, refuses to conform as well. When he is asked to play a traditional German song, he stands up and gives a politically direct speech about his thoughts of the nation. "What's the matter with all of you?" he cries. "Can't you see what's happening? Are you afraid to look?" He rushes outside and the three boys exchange harsh words, their former relationship a distant memory. Arvid then, commits suicide as there is nothing left for him in Germany and becomes a