KRIMINAL (1966)

Kriminal (1966) is an Italian Eurospy film directed by Umberto Lenzi, based on the popular Italian comic book character created by Magnus and Max Bunker. The film is a blend of crime, thriller, and pulp fiction elements, capturing the dark and mischievous spirit of its source material. It is the first film in the Kriminal series and is notable for its stylish presentation, engaging plot, and the charismatic portrayal of its anti-hero, Kriminal.

The film follows the exploits of Kriminal, a master thief and anti-hero known for his cunning, ruthlessness, and his iconic black skeleton costume. After narrowly escaping execution, Kriminal embarks on a daring crime spree across Europe, targeting priceless jewels and treasures. He is pursued by Inspector Milton, a determined law enforcement officer who is always just a step behind.

The plot is filled with twists and turns, as Kriminal uses his skills in disguise, deception, and martial arts to outwit his enemies and achieve his goals. The narrative is fast-paced, with a series of heists, close calls, and betrayals that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Unlike more traditional heroes, Kriminal operates in a moral gray area, often using brutal tactics to get what he wants, which adds a layer of complexity to the character.

Kriminal is a quintessential example of 1960s Eurospy cinema, characterized by its stylish visuals, exotic locations, and a mix of action and intrigue. Umberto Lenzi’s direction is dynamic and energetic, making full use of the film’s international settings, which include London, Istanbul, and various picturesque locales across Europe. The cinematography captures the glamour and danger of the spy world, with a particular emphasis on Kriminal’s menacing presence.

The film’s production values are solid, with well-executed action scenes, clever use of practical effects, and a memorable score that complements the film’s tone. Kriminal’s skeleton suit, a defining feature of the character, is both eerie and iconic, contributing to the film’s overall sense of pulp fiction fun. The costume, combined with Kriminal’s cold demeanor, makes him one of the more visually striking and morally ambiguous characters in the Eurospy genre.

Kriminal was well-received upon its release, particularly by fans of the original comics and the burgeoning Eurospy genre. The film’s darker tone, combined with its stylish direction and engaging storyline, set it apart from other spy films of the era. Glenn Saxson’s portrayal of Kriminal was praised for its charisma and complexity, bringing the comic book character to life in a way that resonated with audiences.

Over time, Kriminal has gained a cult following, especially among fans of Italian genre cinema. It is celebrated for its faithful adaptation of the comic book, its stylish visual aesthetic, and its unique approach to the anti-hero archetype. The film’s success led to the production of a sequel, Il Marchio di Kriminal (1968), further cementing Kriminal’s place in the pantheon of cult film icons.

Kriminal (1966) is a standout entry in the Eurospy genre, offering a darker, more morally ambiguous take on the spy-thriller formula. The film’s stylish direction, engaging plot, and the memorable performance of Glenn Saxson as Kriminal make it a must-watch for fans of 1960s European cinema.

For those interested in the intersection of comic books and film, Kriminal is an excellent example of how Italian cinema adapted popular pulp fiction characters for the big screen. It’s a film that balances action, intrigue, and a touch of noir, making it a compelling and entertaining piece of cult cinema history.