Otto – The Series

“Otto – The Series” is an unusual comedy format from the early 1990s centred on Otto Waalkes, blending classic crime entertainment with Otto’s distinctive brand of humour. Rather than telling a continuous story, the series combines newly shot sketches featuring Otto with scenes from old Edgar Wallace films. These original sequences were re-dubbed, completely transforming their content. Dialogue that was once serious turns into absurd wordplay, and the originally suspenseful plots are deliberately played for laughs. In this way, Otto effectively “smuggles” himself into the dark world of the Wallace films, turning it into a parody driven by nonsense, running gags, and his characteristic humour. The result is an idiosyncratic mix of crime and comedy, whose particular charm lies above all in its playful use of the original material.

Directed by Otto Waalkes, Otto – The Series leans on a strong ensemble — Otto Waalkes, Elisabeth Flickenschildt, Gert Fröbe — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1995.