In Decision Before Dawn, an American officer is recruited to infiltrate a German prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. His mission is to gather critical intelligence on German military plans and activities. As he interacts with the prisoners and navigates the dangers of being undercover, he must make difficult decisions that could have far-reaching consequences.

Life in the barracks, drill, harassment, and private Asch′s pranks are the ingredients of Hans Hellmut Kirst′s successful novel "08/15" (the number of an Army regulation). Shortly before the outbreak of World War II: Private Asch and gunner Vierbein belong to the same unit but could not be more contrary. The instructors use every opportunity to bully the clumsy Vierbein with erratic corporal Platzek leading the way. The harassment starts with minor extra duties but soon the methods become more and more brutal. Finally, Asch comes to Vierbein′s help and takes on his superiors. Joachim Fuchsberger stars in his first major role.

In post-war Germany, an American gets entangled with a secret neo-Nazi organization involved in smuggling and murder, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game.

At the end of the war a disillusioned German exile returns home only to fall into the dark world of black market goods and drug trafficking.

Five musicians form in pre-war Berlin a dance band, which is largely successful thanks to the singer Marion. When love rivalries break out among the musicians and the Second World War begins, they are scattered in all directions. After the war, a coincidence brings them together again.

Country doctor Wilhelm Löhnefink has had enough of being a bachelor and goes looking for a wife.

Heinrich George plays Henner who lives with his wife and child on a tugboat, going on the river to Berlin. There he meets the attractive Gescha (Betty Amann), and a story of love, betrayal and sadness ensues.

Shot in 1944, finished and released in 1954.