Edgar Wallace - Die toten Augen von London (1961)

Edgar Wallace - Die toten Augen von London Poster

A disfigured killer with glazed-over white eyes is doing the dirty work so that an insurance agent-doctor can get the victims' insurance money.

Introduction
"Edgar Wallace - Die toten Augen von London"(The Dead Eyes of London) is a West German black and white criminal offense film directed by Alfred Vohrer, based upon the 1924 unique "The Dark Eyes of London" by British writer Edgar Wallace. The movie was launched in 1961 and starred Klaus Kinski, Joachim Fuchsberger, and Karin Baal. The film remains a classic of the early German movie theater and preserves a cult following due to its thrilling story and engaging characters.

Plot Summary
The story unfolds in a foggy and strange London, where wealthy people are inexplicably dying one by one under dubious circumstances. Each of the victims is discovered with a significant life insurance policy, indicating a possible connection between the murders. An unique private investigator, Inspector Larry Holt, played by Joachim Fuchsberger, is brought in by Scotland Yard due to the growing public issue.

In the heart of the city lies a secret burrow, hidden within a school for the blind. The school's ominous headmaster, Reverend Dearborn, played by Dieter Borsche, leads a group of blind criminals who are out for vengeance against society for their existing condition. The criminals are responsible for the recent string of murders, where they target wealthy and exceptionally blind men who can't see their faces. Moreover, it is exposed that Reverend Dearborn requires the victims to sign brand-new life insurance policies prior to their deaths, naming the school as the sole beneficiary.

Alongside Reverend Dearborn is the creepy, wolf-like character called Jacob 'The Horror,' played by Klaus Kinski. The Horror identifies himself as one of the film's most unforgettable characters, with his disturbing look and treacherous character. He assists in the murders, acting as a scout who determines prospective targets and directs the blind killers.

Inspector Holt is required to partner with Nora, played by Karin Baal, who is the child of among the victims, to link the dots in this twisted criminal riddle. As they dig much deeper into the investigation, they find themselves knotted in a hazardous web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. The duo uncovers the secret hideout of the blind bad guys and their intentions for the murders, causing a fiery fight with Reverend Dearborn and his fans.

Styles and Analysis
"Die toten Augen von London" checks out the styles of revenge, betrayal, and justice. The blind crooks represented a marginalized and ostracized group looking for revenge for their predicament in life. Furthermore, they exploited the susceptible in their quest for vengeance - targeting blind and wealthy guys who had actually wronged them in the past.

The movie likewise discuss the theme of ethical uncertainty, as the line between ideal and incorrect is blurred. Reverend Dearborn's supreme objective is to seek justice for the blind who have actually been mistreated; nevertheless, his techniques include dedicating heinous crimes against innocent people, causing a morally-conflicted viewpoint.

Lastly, Inspector Holt characterizes the classic investigator protagonist in early criminal offense fiction, as he braves the murky London fog and confronts dark forces to unveil the reality and bring justice to the victims.

Conclusion
"Edgar Wallace - Die toten Augen von London" remains a popular classic of German movie theater, with its complex storyline, interesting characters, and distinct environment. The movie supplies an eerie and thrilling experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout its duration. In general, it is a fascinating criminal offense thriller that continues to capture the creativity of audiences even six years after its initial release.

Top Cast

  • Joachim Fuchsberger (small)
    Joachim Fuchsberger
    Inspektor Larry Holt
  • Karin Baal (small)
    Karin Baal
    Nora Ward
  • Eddi Arent (small)
    Eddi Arent
    Sgt. "Sunny" Harvey
  • Wolfgang Lukschy (small)
    Wolfgang Lukschy
    Stephen Judd
  • Dieter Borsche (small)
    Dieter Borsche
    David Judd aka Mr. Lennox / Reverend (Paul) Dearborn
  • Ady Berber (small)
    Ady Berber
    "Blind Jack" Farrell
  • Harry Wüstenhagen (small)
    Harry Wüstenhagen
    "Flimmer" Fred
  • Klaus Kinski (small)
    Klaus Kinski
    Edgar Strauss
  • Bobby Todd (small)
    Bobby Todd
    Lew
  • Hans Paetsch (small)
    Hans Paetsch
    Gordon Stewart
  • Ida Ehre (small)
    Ida Ehre
    Ella Ward