German Popular Cinema and the Rialto Krimi Phenomenon: Dark Eyes of London

(Hardback)

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German Popular Cinema and the Rialto Krimi Phenomenon: Dark Eyes of London examines the Kriminalfilmeor Krimisbased on the novels of English author Edgar Wallace, released by Rialto Film between 1959 and 1972 as part of the post-World War II era of German popular cinema that enjoyed extraordinary popularity with the German public. Nicholas G. Schlegel analyzes how this group of West German thrillers not only nurtured a convalescing film industry, but also provided unequaled national entertainment, canonizing Rialtos Krimi productions in terms of their historical genesis, aesthetic characteristics, and social reception. Schlegel surveys the Krimis enduring legacy, calculable global influence, inevitable decline, and eventual migration to television in the 1970s, where it thrived, but ultimately took on a more somber tone. Scholars of film, television, history, and German culture will find this book particularly useful.

Reviews

Nicholas Schlegels highly enjoyable book provides an in-depth look at post-war German cinemas most popular, but critically maligned, genre cycle. The books greatest achievement is that after reading the authors engaging and enthusiastic account, you want to immediately return to viewing the films.

-- Tim Bergfelder, University of Southampton

This is a book Ive dreamed of owning for some time: a history of the West German krimi film phenomenon of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s - in English, and from the pen of an obsessed writer armed with the facts and sharp critical thinking.

-- Tim Lucas, Editor of Video Watchdog

Even as formerly neglected genres of popular European cinema from the Italian western to French film noir are now getting their due, the distinctive German krimior crime thrilleris often overlooked. Fortunately, Nicholas Schlegel is on the case. In this book, he deftly traces the krimis roots in European culture, literature, and film, and offers an in-depth look at key examples of the genre, which was a mainstay of popular cinema across the pond in the mid-twentieth century. It is an indispensable guide for anyone interested in these stylish, pulpy, and highly entertaining whodunits.

-- Ian Olney, York College and author of Zombie Cinema

Author Bio

Nicholas G. Schlegel is assistant professor of communication studies at Alfred University.