Killer Condom

Killer Condom is a dark comedy horror film released in 1996. The film is a German production directed by Martin Walz. This intriguing movie features a talented cast including Udo Samel, Peter Lohmeyer, and Iris Berben. The screenplay was brilliantly adapted by Mario Kramp from Ralf König's comic book titled "Kondom des Grauens," which means "Condom of Horror."

Set in the pulsating heart of New York's Times Square, Killer Condom follows the thrilling narrative of a detective named Luigi Mackeroni, brought to life by Udo Samel in a standout performance that combines elements of humour and suspense. Detective Mackeroni, an Italian-New Yorker with experience in dealing with some of the city's strangest cases, is established as a cynical, hard-boiled cop with a penchant for cigars. He also happens to be openly gay, a significantly progressive characterization for a 1996 film.

The main plot unravels when Mackeroni is drawn into an unspeakable case involving injuries to men at a dubious hotel. These injuries are quickly linked to the existence of the titular "killer condom." This condom is no average contraceptive; it is shown to be a bio-engineered and highly intelligent entity with an appetite for destruction. As Mackeroni delves deeper into the case, the detective finds himself unearthing associations to a hidden plot involving corruption, dark secrets, and a scheme of bloody revenge.

Co-stars Peter Lohmeyer, as Billy, and Iris Berben, as Eva, further amplify the narrative. Lohmeyer offers a refreshing performance, brilliantly managing the delicate balance of comic relief and sincere character growth. Iris Berben shines in her role, providing an engaging portrayal that adds a commanding presence to the overall plot.

Unconventional as it is, Killer Condom teeters on the fine line of B-movie horror and satirical comedy, taking a tongue-in-cheek look at serious themes of religious fanaticism, corporate power misuse, and societal standards of normality. The film doesn't shy away from explicit content, instead using it smartly to drive home the narrative - while it is often graphically suggestive, it seamlessly blends sexual themes with spooky elements, producing an unusual cinematic spectacle that lingers in the mind long after the end credits roll.

Director Martin Walz does a commendable job of translating the comic book's outlandish concept to the big screen, injecting just the right amount of shocking imagery and humor to maintain interest. The movie's special effects, with the titular character being fully realized in rubber by well-known special effects designer H.R. Giger, are exceptionally done for the time considering its low budget. For a 90s movie, the mise-en-scene is moody and atmospheric, capturing the dingy, neon-lit streets of New York to heighten the sense of dread and explore the underbelly of the city.

The movie, apart from its main narrative, paints a comprehensive picture of the societal and political climate of the mid-90s. Homophobia, religious hypocrisy, and bureaucratic corruption are highlighted and satirized, adding layers to the film's unconventional plot. From start to finish, Killer Condom ensures continuous engagement with its intriguing narrative, unexpected humor, and compelling performances.

For all its peculiarity, Killer Condom is a distinct film that defies genre norms and expectations, offering instead a unique blend of satire, horror, and dark comedy. The exceptional performances by Udo Samel, Peter Lohmeyer, and Iris Berben in their respective roles add depth, while Martin Walz’s impressive direction pulls the film together into a coherent, memorable, and quite singular cinematic experience.

In the final analysis, Killer Condom is not one to be watched without an open mind. It is unconventional and even outlandish, but it invites the viewer to indulge in its absurdity, making it a potential cult classic for fans of horror-comedy genre.