This model essay is in response to the June 2021 AQA A-level German Paper 2 Question 12.2 on the 2006 film “Das Leben der Anderen” (The Lives of Others) directed by Florian Henkel von Donnersmarck. The original question can be found on the AQA website. This study guide is independent and not affiliated with AQA. This revision guide has been written by me, a student at Imperial College London with experience tutoring and mentoring, who completed A-level German, and is based on my own knowledge, understanding and revision of the course. The document includes a breakdown of what is required to obtain top marks in the AO3 and AO4 marking components of a German essay and how it is illustrated in the model essay, as well as an English translation of the essay for easy interpretation. The model essay would achieve an A* grade (full marks - 40/40) but I have also included an A grade version of the essay with a full evaluation of common mistakes and how to take it to the next level. Within the guide there are also prompts and suggestions for 10 tasks you can do that will improve your essay writing skills and help you create your own resources for the film in preparation for exam season. I have also included a page with an extensive list of Das Leben der Anderen vocabulary.