VIDEO REVIEW: The Terrible People

VIDEO REVIEW: The Black Abbot

VIDEO REVIEW: The College Girl Murders

VIDEO REVIEW: Zimmer 13

VIDEO REVIEW: Der Hexer

REVIEW: The Terrible People

The Terrible People

Director: Harald Reinl

Year 1960

The Terrible People, AKA Die Bande des Schreckens, is a wonderfully demented and highly atmospheric Krimi film which relishes in its ample twists and turns. Cast in the genre's stylistic black and white photography and bathed in morbid visual splendor, this extremely enjoyable murder mystery is every bit as entertaining as its fantastic cast. With a steady balance of horror archetypes and comedic shenanigans, The Terrible People is an Edgar Wallace adaption that is sure to thrill.

The film begins with the capture and execution of master criminal Clay Shelton. Before he is sentenced to death, he curses all that were involved with his capture, claiming the “Hand of the Gallows” will murder each one ending with Chief Inspector Long of Scotland Yard. As bodies begin piling up and the list of intended victims begins to lessen, Inspector Long searches through throngs of shady characters and scrupulous dealings in order to find out who is behind these mysterious murders, all the while trying to keep his new-found love interest, Nora Sanders, from harms way.

Joachim Fuchsberger takes on the role of Chief Inspector Long and he does a fabulous job in the featured role. Joachim is no stranger to those of you that are fans of the genre, for he pops up in a great number of Krimi films, often taking on the lead role and doing it with style. His charisma and screen presence is unquestionably captivating, and in The Terrible People, he's in top form. His quick wit and sarcastic demeanor fits perfectly with the whimsical, yet atmospheric proceedings, and you can tell that he is an actor made for the genre. As the central focal point of the film, and the character who leads us into the fray, you can find no one better than Fuchsberger. He takes the character of Inspector Long and just runs with it, making an already enjoyable film that much more entertaining.

The rest of the cast fills in rather nicely with Fritz Rasp playing the Inspector's rigid father Lord Godley Long, Dieter Eppler taking on the sneaky and opportunistic Mr. Crayley, Ulrich Beiger as the mustachioed cad Mr. Henry, and Elisabeth Flickenschildt as the mischievous heiress Mrs. Revelstoke. They all do an impressive job in pulling out every red hearing trick in the book, and each one gets ample time to chew up the scenery. The real standouts among the cast are Krimi regulars Karin Dor and Eddi Arent. Karin Dor takes on the role of Nora Sanders, Inspector Long's love interest, while Eddi Arent plays the bumbling and faint of heart crime scene photographer Antony Edwards. Karin looks absolutely spectacular in her innocent portrayal of Ms. Sanders, while Arent does his usual comedic shtick to perfection. All in all, the cast is a wonderfully diverse group of characters that make this Krimi world come to stark life.

As for the story of The Terrible People, it is one that is filled with just the right amount of twists and turns, making you second guess every character that comes into frame. The set up of Clay Shelton's ghost murdering the people responsible for his capture and death is expertly executed, and the horror infused elements that this premise brings to life is a real treat to see play out. Those handful of moments where Shelton's figure is spotted at the scene of the crime are rather haunting, and they do marvels for ratcheting up the mystery of the story.

The atmosphere of the film is equally palpable, providing a slew of outstanding locations and sets to allow all the morbid sequences to pan out. From swanky country clubs, to fog covered woods, to tranquil rivers, and the stereotypical interiors of lavish mansions, the film has an overabundance of locales that always serve the story well. Not only are these locations distinct in tone and presence, but they are shot in the most exquisite and picturesque of ways. The black and white photography is outstandingly vivid, making for a perfect mixture of foreboding horror and unabashed beauty. Combine that with the intricate plot of multiple murders by the hand of a phantom specter and you have yourself one hell of a good time.

The Terrible People, AKA Die Bande des Schreckens, is a perfect example of the quality of films you can find in the Krimi genre. Its perfect display of balancing the horror and comedic elements of the narrative is a testament to the genre as a whole. This is also prevalent in the movie's visual aspects, as there is an abundance of charm to be had in all the eye candy within the picture. With the film's beautiful cinematography and fabulous black and white photography, the movie is a classic presentation that allows the style to gel with the substance.

Adding to the already impressive aspects of the production, the cast gives an outstanding ensemble performance allowing the paranoia of the narrative to grab hold and never let go. Though infused with a tongue and cheek attitude, the movie and its characters still manage to emphasize the mystery surrounding the film, and it is a balancing act that I've only really seen accomplished within the Krimi genre. Joachim Fuchsberger, Karin Dor, and Eddi Arent seem bred for the proceedings, giving tremendous turns as our central figures. Joachim especially brings a charismatic approach to his Inspector Long character, which can attribute to the film's infectious appeal and lasting impression. If you're new to the genre or are looking to expand your Krimi knowledge, then I highly recommend checking this entry out. The Terrible People is.....

There's something fishy about this guy.

Are you gonna bark tree, or am I going to have to pump you full of lead?

Now that's an interesting way to take a photo.

I hate classically painted portraits...... There's one right behind me isn't there?

Hello there!

Just hold it right there you sexy beast!

God damn I'm one sexy motherfucker!

The name's Long.... Inspector Long.

I'm sorry, is my mustache disrupting your meal?

Look at my mustache..... Look at it!

Murder Mystery Staring Contest.... GO!

Let's see if we can't get that booger out.

Ahoy there!

Mr. Crayley... You dirty traitor you.

Eddi! Say it Arent so!

Check out my bling bitches.

Surprise! It's a gun-phone!

Hey you! Pull my finger!

REVIEW: Der Monch mit der Peitsche

Der Monch mit der Peitsche

Director: Alfred Vohrer

Year 1967

Der Monch mit der Peitsche, AKA The College Girl Murders, is an unabashedly fun Edgar Wallace inspired Krimi film that, like most Krimi efforts, has a tongue firmly placed in cheek attitude. Brimming with interesting characters and wildly atmospheric locations, this Alfred Vohrer directed gem packs in quite an intriguing mystery. With its abundance of exciting twists, strings of red herrings and tendency to dip into the macabre in excessive amounts, The College Girl Murders is an outstandingly funny and often engaging outing that is sure to satisfy anyone looking for murder, mystery, and of course, a plethora of manic moments.

The film centers on an all girls college where a series of grisly murders have been occurring in and around the grounds of the school. One by one, the students begin to drop like flies, by an assassin who uses various poisonous devices to accomplish his diabolical deeds. To make matters more complicated, a red hooded Monk, armed with a whip, is also on the prowl. With the bodies beginning to pile up, Scotland Yard is called in to investigate. Led by Inspector Higgins, a practical and charismatic examiner, and Sir John, the whimsical and farcical Chief Inspector, the dynamic duo must figure out a way to stop the killings while unmasking the fiend behind it all. Can the two get to the bottom of this sordid plot and foil the killer's plans, or are the remaining girls doomed to death like their fallen peers?

Joachim Fuchsberger takes on the role of Inspector Higgins while Siegfried Schurenberg plays Sir John. To those out there that are not strangers of the Krimi genre, both Fuchsberger and Schurenberg should be two familiar faces. The outstanding actors have shared the screen together in countless other Krimi films like, The Inn on the River, Room 13, and The Mysterious Magician, plus have individually attacked the genre with such outstanding entries as Dead Eyes of London, The Black Abbot, and The Indian Scarf. In the case of The College Girl Murders, Fuchsberger and Schurenberg do a fantastic job as they riff off of each other with the greatest of ease.

In the story, Schurenberg's character Sir John is the superior to Fuchsberger's character Higgins, but the true nature of their partnership would be that Higgins is the one more suitable for being in charge. Fuchsberger gives his Higgins role a sure fire cocky disposition that always seems to have each situation under control, while Fuchsberger's Sir John is left foolishly grasping at straws, ultimately providing a great deal of comedic moments that truly lift up the film into whimsical territory. The chemistry between the two is just phenomenal and it is in these wacky moments, when both characters are interacting, that the film genuinely leaps to life and brings on the fun.

As with any Krimi entry, the atmosphere and locations are a standout necessity and with The College Girl Murders we are given that in copious amounts. First and foremost, the actual college in which the film is genuinely centered around is a harbinger for outstandingly creepy visuals and iconic imagery. From the darkened corridors of the dormitories, to the strange venues of the school's swimming pool with underwater glass viewing window, to the fog shrouded grounds of the college's estate, the film has plenty of opportunity to wow its audience with something truly spectacular and fresh. This tradition also carries over into the main villain’s secret hideaway, where we are given some Bond-esque views of the madman's eccentric lair, complete with an alligator pit and an aquarium encased room.

The inventive aspects of the film's visual presentation and outlandish sets goes hand in hand with the movie's imaginative ways in which the killer dispenses with his victims. From a poison vapor spewing bible, to a silly ray gun that dispenses deadly webbing, to a few more unusually conceptualized murdering devices, the film spares no expense in entertaining the audience at every turn. There is also some ridiculous fun to be had with the red hooded Monk character, who kills his victims with a bull whip. If anything can be said about this movie, it would be that it definitely has a lot going for it. From the multiple twists and turns that the narrative takes, to the wildly over the top characters, to the visual imaginative nature of the entire production, you really can't deny that the movie keeps your attention to the very end. Ultimately, that's seemingly the main goal of this original and downright fun Krimi and in that perspective it is a job exceptionally done.

The College Girl Murders is a wild Krimi fueled ride which never hesitates in bringing out every trick in the book. Its fun filled attitude and whimsical style really adds to the enjoyability factor of the film. Joachim Fuchsberger and Siegfried Schurenberg do a bang up job as two unlikely partners caught up in the most intriguing of mysteries. As previously stated, their chemistry is top notch and the comedic timing between the two is impeccable, serving to be the main source of fun to be had from this wacky film.

As for the sets and locations of the movie, they are on par with most genuinely well done Edgar Wallace productions, but this time with an added and more visually vivid approach thanks to the use of color and panache infused style. The settings of the all girls school, the fog shrouded woods, and the villain's lair are all tremendously succinct aspects of the production that really shine on the screen. The mixture of moody locations, whimsical banter, macabre humor, inventive horror, and odd ball characters is a perfect blend, and in this motley assortment of film flavors, The College Girl Murders provides a delightful example of what this interesting genre can conjure up. If you're looking for an entertaining mystery that spares no expense in the fun department, then give this one a go. The College Girl Murders is one Krimi that is.....

The moment two scientists fall in love. Awwwww!

The new Klu Klux Klan summer fashion line. FABULOUS!

That dude behind me is really starting to creep me out.

Come Here!!!!

Pull my finger Higgins..... PULL IT!

So you old bat.... You feel like a roll in the hay?

Well that settles it girls. It's spanking train time!

You damn kids and your water pistols!

Oh shit! It's time for bedtime stories with Sir John again.

You got a staring problem buddy?

Sir John, I'd ask you kindly not to stare at me like that.

Get Over Here! Finish Him!

There's something fishy about you lady.

Why you cheeky little pervert!

A blind man could see the signals this chick is sending. Wake up Higgins!

The red cloak and matching gloves were not the best choice for date night.

Go ahead and jump you chicken shit!

What manner of wild animal is that?

REVIEW: Der Schwarze Abt

Der Schwarze Abt
Director: Franz Josef Gottlieb
Year 1963

Der Schwarze Abt, AKA The Black Abbot, is a moody Krimi film that relies on its interesting characters and outstandingly spooky locations to set the tone for this exceptionally well done horror/thriller hybrid. The long list of characters that pop up within this narrative make for a wonderful “whodunit” scenario, and the intertwining and backstabbing between the various participants makes for some fun viewing that never loses its luster as the bodies begin to pile up. With its palpable atmosphere and intriguing story line, Der Schwarze Abt is a Krimi entry that rises to the “Kream” of the crop.

The film takes place at a spooky estate which is plagued by a haunting specter called the Black Abbot. This hooded ghoul stalks the grounds of the abbey, looking for people greedy enough to step onto the property and attempt to uncover the mysterious treasure that lies within its underground labyrinth. Even with the presence of this murderous ghost, a long line of guests find themselves drawn to the treasure including the owner of the estate Lord Chelford, who will stop at nothing to keep his inheritance safe. Who is behind this black cowl of death and is the treasure real or is it only a legend? Only the Black Abbot knows… Mwahahahaha!

Joachim Fuchsberger plays the role of Dick Alford, the cousin and caretaker of Lord Harry Chelford’s estate. Plagued by the love of Chelford’s fiancé Leslie Gine and concerned over the diminishing mindset of his cousin’s mental state, Alford is overwhelmed with trying to keep the families estate under control. Joachim does a fantastic job with the character and he does a great job of walking the fine line of whether he is in it for the fortune or for the sake of the family. This is the third Krimi film that I’ve seen that had Joachim playing in a starring role and, like his acting in both Zimmer 13 and Der Hexer; he does an amazing job with the brooding material. His character in Der Schwarze Abt is quite different from those other two films, for in this one he plays the character in a serious vein. While his performance might be toned down from his others, Joachim still is able to project that charm that is so entertaining to watch up on the screen.

The rest of the cast does an equally commendable job in both entertaining with their diversity and engaging with their manipulative efforts. Grit Boettcher plays the role of Leslie Gine, the object of many of the men’s affections in this film, including Lord Harry Chelford played by Dieter Borsche, Fabian Gilder played by Werner Peters, and the already mentioned Dick Alford played by Joachim Fuchsberger. Other stand out performances can be attributed to Charles Regnier who plays Detective Puddler, Eddi Arent who in typecast form takes on the role of Horatio W. Smith the eccentric detective, and Klaus Kinski who plays the sneaky butler named Thomas Fortuna. The cast of Der Schwarze Abt is absolutely wonderful and they’re able to handle the delicate and intertwining connections between each other filled with betrayal, blackmail, and murder.

As with most Krimi films, the thematic overtones of Der Schwarze Abt is a hybrid beast comprising of one part horror, one part thriller, and one part crime drama. Der Schwarze Abt does an amazing job of balancing all of these elements without making them feel like a jumbled mess. The gothic black and white imagery is as beautiful and haunting as they come and the inclusion of the underground labyrinth with its endless catacombs is such a visual treat that just keeps on giving each time we are reacquainted with it. In multiple instances, a character would venture down into the tombs, gifting the audience with another amazing location that hits the mood of the film right on the head. What makes these sequences so enjoyable is that they are filled with secret trap doors and puzzles to solve, making the intricate nature of this treasure and its secrets all the more enthralling as we delve deeper into the mystery.

Just as the underground labyrinth and its tunnels are interesting, the above ground locations of the abbey are as equally captivating as its underworld counterparts. Ancient stone archways jut out across the foggy landscape, while overgrown brush and weeds hide the faces of lurking trespassers as they watch each other scheme and plot under the light of the moon. The location is just perfect for this kind of tale, and you’d be hard pressed to find a more suitable area to shoot this sort of film in. The elaborate estate oozes a history that begs to be discovered and this concept thrives within this narrative, mirroring the obsessed nature of the characters of the film as we watch them embark on their individual quests for glory and unimaginable riches. Der Schwarze Abt is definitely a film that uses its haunting location for all it’s worth, as it chokes its audience under an oppressive veil of gothic delights and atmospheric frights.  

Der Schwarze Abt is an immensely enjoyable Krimi film that relies on its potent atmosphere and opportunistic characters to push the story along. With an abundance of visual style and a particular penchant for gothic detail, the movie knows how to create a mood and it goes all out in its execution. An expansive estate, a slew of haunting vistas, and an endless underground labyrinth can all be seen in this impressive Krimi entry that begs you to plunge into its foreboding world and soak it all up. If ever there were a more perfect location for a movie like this, I’ve never seen it.

What really makes this film enjoyable though is the inclusion of an outstanding cast of characters that really liven up the surroundings with a multitude of back-stabbings, double-crosses, and multiple murders. The legend of the Black Abbot that weighs heavy over the narrative of this film is quite brilliant and the presence of this black hooded specter gives way to some hair raising moments that thrive in that visually interesting way. With its gothic trappings and overwhelming imagery, Der Schwarze Abt is a captivating Krimi film that uses all of the genre’s thematic concepts and turns out a spellbinding whodunit tale where anything goes, including the lives of many of its characters. This film is an…..

My what beautiful eyes you have Black Abbot.

Black Abbot! You back-stabbing bastard!

I've got my eye on you mister.

Check it out! It's the smallest pencil in the world.

You hang up... no you hang up. That Kinski.

I don't like your piggly features.

Hey Abbot!

Hold it right there you sneaky Abbot.

Looks like pig season is in.

Get that towel off your head..... Ass.

Awkward!

Sir, may I take a toke?

This dude is scared out of his mind. Literally.

Looks like the Black Abbot has got a hurtin turd.

My word, I've never seen a turd that big. Marvelous.

Pig-man sad.

The crew was captivated by the discovery of an ancient egyptian hidden porn stash.

Eddie Arent and his wacky antics. Oh Eddie.

You'll never get me gold you bastards!