Das Netz

I seem to be a bit out on my own liking this but then it has been little seen at all apparently. The story is a bit odd, writer of the old school badgered to be more 'with it' and then after a killing, encouraged by Kinski to write his memoirs and featuring the murder that he is convinced he has done. Mel Ferrer is convincing if not attractive or particularly sympathetic as the mature writer but Heinz Bennent is very good as the police inspector, Elke Sommer very sound as a call girl that gets knocked around by Kinski and Kinski himself, simply amazing. He folds himself effortlessly into the role and however despicable he may be he steals every scene. Just the way he worms his way around a door or sits upon the inspector's desk or lights one of his many, many cigarettes, he is a pleasure to watch. There is some sleaze a lot of obsession, a degree of suspense and a very well shot and directed film that will surprise and delight. I'd have thought, anyway, for I loved the idea and the execution.