The Old Fox

General
1

if you’ve seen the German serial (dubbed in English) which has Siegfried Lowitz starring as the Chief detective Koster. This serial was dubbed in English as ‘The Old Fox’. It had about 451 episodes.

Can you give a brief story of a few of stories in a few of these episodes to start with?

If your recollection is as interesting as the serial was in the late 70s, we can have more episodes discussed later.

2

Can you give a brief story of a few stories in a few of these episodes to start with?

Answer:
Certainly, @smilez! “The Old Fox” (originally titled “Der Alte”) is a classic German crime drama series featuring Siegfried Lowitz as Chief Detective Erwin Köster. This beloved show indeed has a rich collection of thrilling episodes. Here are brief summaries of a few memorable ones from the early years:

1. Pilot Episode: “Der Alte – Eine Tote vo Cords” (1977)

In the series premiere, Chief Detective Köster is tasked with solving the complicated case involving the murder of a young woman found in a car showroom. The investigation reveals layers of deceit, ambition, and betrayal within a seemingly respectable family-run business. Köster’s meticulous approach highlights his seasoned investigative skills as he brings the perpetrator to justice, setting the tone for the series.

2. Episode 5: “Tod am Bahngleis” (1977)

In this episode, a body is discovered near the railway tracks, sparking a high-stakes investigation. As Köster and his team delve into the victim’s life, they uncover a web of illicit affairs and dark secrets. The methodical piecing together of clues and Köster’s relentless pursuit of the truth underline the complexities of human relationships and the lengths to which people will go to hide their indiscretions.

3. Episode 12: “Verlorene Unschuld” (1978)

“Verlorene Unschuld” (Lost Innocence) is a harrowing tale revolving around the murder of a young schoolteacher. Köster’s investigation reveals a history of abuse and blackmail within the educational institution. The storyline touches on sensitive social issues, showcasing Köster’s empathy and sharp intellect as he navigates through numerous red herrings to unearth the shocking reality behind the crime.

4. Episode 22: “Späte Rache” (1978)

In “Späte Rache” (Late Revenge), a prominent businessman is found dead, and initial evidence points to an apparent suicide. However, Köster’s instinct tells him otherwise. As he digs deeper, he discovers the victim’s connections to a past criminal act and uncovers a tale of revenge that spans decades. The episode is a gripping portrayal of how past wrongdoings come full circle, resulting in tragic consequences.

5. Episode 30: “Das Erbe” (1979)

“The Inheritance” focuses on the mysterious death of a wealthy heir. Suspicion falls on various family members, each with motives linked to the inheritance. Köster navigates through the family’s dark history and secrets, balancing his detective prowess with a deep understanding of human nature. The narrative builds tension until Köster finally reveals the unexpected perpetrator and motive, highlighting his unparalleled deductive skills.

Final Answer:
These episodes from “The Old Fox” (Der Alte) illustrate the brilliant storytelling and intricate plotting that made the series a standout in crime drama. Each episode not only showcases Chief Detective Köster’s keen investigative abilities but also delves into intricate human emotions and societal issues, ensuring that every case is as intellectually stimulating as it is thrilling.

Would you like more summaries or any specific episodes reviewed?

3

are there any serials similar to this German serial in English, old or new, (available to see on ths youtube) with as much suspense and mystery?

4

Are there any serials similar to this German serial in English, old or new, (available to see on YouTube) with as much suspense and mystery?

Answer:
Certainly, @smilez! There are several English-language crime dramas, both classic and contemporary, that offer the same level of suspense and intricate plotting as “The Old Fox.” Here’s a list of some noteworthy series you might enjoy, which are also available on YouTube:

1. Columbo

Description:
“Columbo” is a classic American crime drama series starring Peter Falk as the seemingly bumbling but incredibly shrewd Lieutenant Columbo. Each episode features him solving complex murder cases, usually involving wealthy or well-connected suspects who initially underestimate him. The series is known for its “howcatchem” format, where the audience sees the crime being committed and Columbo then works to unravel the truth.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “Murder by the Book”
  • “A Stitch in Crime”
  • “Troubled Waters”

2. Poirot

Description:
Based on Agatha Christie’s famous detective novels, “Poirot” stars David Suchet as Hercule Poirot, a meticulous Belgian detective with a keen eye for detail and an exceptional intellect. The series is set in the early to mid-20th century and revolves around Poirot’s investigations into various murders and mysteries.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “The Mysterious Affair at Styles”
  • “Murder on the Orient Express”
  • “Death on the Nile”

3. Midsomer Murders

Description:
“Midsomer Murders” follows Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby (later replaced by his cousin John Barnaby) and his team as they solve murders in the fictional, seemingly idyllic English county of Midsomer. Despite the picturesque settings, the series is known for its dark, often convoluted murder plots.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “The Killings at Badger’s Drift”
  • “Death’s Shadow”
  • “Picture of Innocence”

4. Inspector Morse

Description:
This British series stars John Thaw as Detective Chief Inspector Endeavour Morse, who solves complex cases in and around Oxford with his partner, Sergeant Lewis. The series is known for its character-driven storytelling, literary references, and intricate plots.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “The Dead of Jericho”
  • “The Silent World of Nicholas Quinn”
  • “The Wench Is Dead”

5. Prime Suspect

Description:
Starring Helen Mirren as Detective Chief Inspector Jane Tennison, “Prime Suspect” is a British police procedural series that follows Tennison as she navigates the challenges of solving heinous crimes while dealing with gender biases within the police force. The series is gritty, realistic, and highly acclaimed for its storytelling and performances.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “Prime Suspect 1”
  • “Prime Suspect 2”
  • “Prime Suspect: The Final Act”

6. The Sherlock

Description:
A modern reimagining of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories, “Sherlock” stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. Set in contemporary London, the series retains the sharp intelligence and thrilling mystery-solving that made the original stories famous.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “A Study in Pink”
  • “The Reichenbach Fall”
  • “His Last Vow”

7. Vera

Description:
Vera stars Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope, a sharp and dedicated detective with a knack for solving the toughest cases in Northumberland. Her intuitive methods and strong personality make for compelling drama.

Episodes to Check Out:

  • “Hidden Depths”
  • “Silent Voices”
  • “Blind Spot”

Final Answer:
These series each bring their own unique flair to the crime drama genre, with compelling characters, intricate storylines, and plenty of suspense. Most of the episodes and sometimes entire series can be found on YouTube, making them easily accessible for viewing. These should keep you thoroughly entertained and on the edge of your seat!

Would you like recommendations for more recent series or any other specific elements you’re interested in?

5

Are there any gripping short stories books or videos which may be have a nail biting suspense and mystery, not necessarily only about a certain detective.
Something like the serial Lost, or The Old Fox, The Psycho movie series etc?
List as many as you possibly can so i don’t have to repeat this question again to you.

6

Are there any gripping short stories books or videos which may have nail-biting suspense and mystery, not necessarily only about a certain detective? Something like the serial Lost, or The Old Fox, The Psycho movie series, etc?

Answer:
Absolutely @smilez! Here are some gripping short story books and videos that offer nail-biting suspense and mystery across various formats, not limited to detective tales. These works span different genres and styles but are united by their ability to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Books:

  1. “The Complete Short Stories of Edgar Allan Poe” by Edgar Allan Poe

    • Highlights: “The Tell-Tale Heart,” “The Fall of the House of Usher,” “The Black Cat”
    • Poe’s mastery in gothic horror and suspense ensures each story is filled with eerie atmospheres and psychological tension.

  2. “Roald Dahl’s Book of Ghost Stories” edited by Roald Dahl

    • Highlights: “The Upper Berth” by F. Marion Crawford, “The Corner Shop” by Cynthia Asquith
    • A compilation of chilling ghost stories handpicked by Dahl, offering a variety of spine-tingling tales.

  3. “Night Shift” by Stephen King

    • Highlights: “Jerusalem’s Lot,” “The Ledge,” “Children of the Corn”
    • King’s collection ranges from the supernatural to the quite literally horrific, making it hard to put down.

  4. “The Lottery and Other Stories” by Shirley Jackson

    • Highlights: “The Lottery,” “The Daemon Lover,” “Seven Types of Ambiguity”
    • Jackson’s work often explores the unsettling undercurrents in everyday life, culminating in shocking and unexpected twists.

  5. “Nine Stories” by J.D. Salinger

    • Highlights: “A Perfect Day for Bananafish,” “The Laughing Man,” “Teddy”
    • Though not traditionally suspenseful, Salinger’s stories carry an underlying tension and profound, often disturbing insights.

  6. “Tales of the Unexpected” by Roald Dahl

    • Highlights: “Lamb to the Slaughter,” “The Landlady,” “Man from the South”
    • Dahl weaves stories with surprising and often sinister conclusions, making each tale a gripping read.

Audiobooks:

  1. “Locked Doors” by Blake Crouch (Audio)

    • Full of suspense and unpredictable twists, this story keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.

  2. “In the Tall Grass” by Stephen King and Joe Hill (Audio)

    • A chilling tale of siblings who encounter terrifying experiences in a Kansas field.

YouTube Channels and Short Films:

  1. ALTER (YouTube Channel)

    • Showcases a variety of suspenseful and horror short films.
    • Highlights: “The Dollmaker,” “Cultivation”

  2. The Twilight Zone (Original Series)

    • Available on various streaming platforms, many episodes are also on YouTube.
    • Highlights: “Nightmare at 20,000 Feet,” “Time Enough at Last,” “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street”

  3. Short of the Week (YouTube Channel)

    • Features award-winning short films in various genres, including thriller and mystery.

  4. David F. Sandberg’s “Lights Out” (Short Film)

    • A suspenseful short that went viral for its chilling and simple concept.

  5. Viddsee (YouTube Channel)

    • Hosts a range of short films from different genres, including several with intriguing and suspenseful plots.

Movies and Series with Suspense and Mystery Elements:

  1. “Black Mirror” (Netflix)

    • Highlights: “White Bear,” “Shut Up and Dance,” “Hated in the Nation”
    • Each episode stands alone with suspenseful and often dystopian themes.

  2. “The Twilight Zone” (Reboot)

    • Brings a modern twist to classic suspense narratives.
    • Highlights: “Rewind,” “The Who of You”

  3. “Inside No. 9” (BBC)

    • An anthology series where each episode offers a fresh, suspenseful story.
    • Highlights: “A Quiet Night In,” “The 12 Days of Christine”

  4. “Room 104” (HBO)

    • Another anthology series that explores different genres in each episode, many of which are highly suspenseful.
    • Highlights: “Ralphie,” “Voyeurs”

  5. “Tales from the Crypt”

    • A series of standalone episodes based on the EC Comics of the same name, featuring horror, suspense, and dark humor.
    • Highlights: “And All Through the House,” “The Ventriloquist’s Dummy”

TV Miniseries:

  1. “The Night Of” (HBO)

    • A gripping miniseries following a young man accused of murder and the ensuing legal battle.
    • Highlights: Entire series

  2. “Sharp Objects” (HBO)

    • A dark and suspenseful series based on Gillian Flynn’s novel.
    • Highlights: Entire series

  3. “Big Little Lies” (HBO)

    • A miniseries that intertwines the lives of several women amid a murder investigation.
    • Highlights: Entire series

Final Answer:

These books, videos, and series cover a wide range of suspenseful and mysterious narratives, ensuring that you have a wealth of gripping content to explore. Whether you prefer reading, watching short films, or diving into longer series, these recommendations guarantee an immersive experience filled with nail-biting suspense.

Would you like more detailed recommendations for any specific genre or format?