I have to admit that I don't know a great deal about Krimi creator Edgar Wallace, but I would guess that he's a fan of Sherlock Holmes; as this film takes obvious influence from the classic story 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'. It's not a direct rip-off, however (despite several similarities) and it has to be said that once again the German writer has created an inventive and off the wall story that is sure to delight mystery fans. The film begins with an amusing pop song played over the credits. As the title suggests, the bulk of this film takes place in an around the grounds of an old castle named Blackwood Castle. There's a problem in the area as several people have turned up dead - but the police can't work if they've been killed by a dog or died from snake venom. The owner of Blackwood Castle has passed away and so his daughter has come to claim the castle; but she is hassled by a stream of visitors who seem extremely interested in the castle. Also added into the mix are an insurance investigator and a couple of Scotland Yard detectives.
The film is set in England and despite the fact that everyone speaks German; the film does actually have a British feel to it. The thing I like most about the Krimi genre is undoubtedly the style of it and once again director Alfred Vohrer has created a beautiful world for the film to take place in full of rich colours and grandiose locations. The film was obviously shot on a budget, but that's not a big problem. The mystery itself can get a bit messy, but there's always plenty going on and the film easily fills its ninety minute running time. In fact, it's quite unbelievable the range of characters that have somehow been fitted into this film! It does have to be said that the story is not as wacky as some other films in the genre, but there's still plenty of odd goings on; the whole deal with the murders and the dog is a particularly imaginative highlight! The film is clearly not meant to be taken 100% seriously, and indeed the script does allow for some humour, which actually works well with the plot. It all boils down to an entertaining conclusion that somewhat makes sense; and although this film is not for everyone, it is very entertaining and I'm sure Krimi fans will enjoy it!
