Der Menschenfresser
Der Menschenfresser

Movie spotlight

Der Menschenfresser

1994
Movie
90 min
German

A crime writer on a train to Berlin shares her compartment with a mysterious man who claims to be a cannibal. Initially intrigued, she tries to humorously dismiss his claim while her imagination sparks a new novel featuring Detective Rosa Roth, who investigates a similar case. As the journey progresses, the writer’s confidence fades, replaced by fear and mistrust. The man’s behaviour becomes more unsettling, especially after a young girl reports inappropriate comments from him. In the dining car, he claims to have eaten a fellow passenger and reveals his tools are nearby. Despite her fear, the writer is drawn to learn more about his methods, blurring the lines between her novel and reality. Ultimately, her fantasy merges with reality, leading to dire consequences.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Klaus GietingerGenres: Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A talented but morally compromised lawyer takes on a case involving a young woman accused of murder. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a complex web of deceit, manipulation, and a disturbing past. The lawyer finds himself increasingly entangled in the dark secrets surrounding the case and the accused.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising its tense atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from Ulrich Tukur. Some found the plot somewhat convoluted, but generally, it was seen as a compelling and thought-provoking crime drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful narrative and atmosphere.

  • Ulrich Tukur's performance as the conflicted lawyer was a standout.

  • Some critics noted a predictable plot progression in the latter half.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not widely available.

Fun Fact

The film is based on a novel of the same name by German author Wolfgang Hohlbein, known for his fantasy and horror works.

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