Taxi zum Klo

"Taxi zum Klo" does not enjoy that great a reputation, due to its explicitness and "amoral" (some would say "immoral") values. Yet, I have the feeling that this film, while by no means great, is not all that bad either. The director-star chose to bare his sentiments in this public forum, and has done so with forthrightness. I picked this film in video form from the shelves of a public library. This suggests that given the passing of time, it will be even more readily available, and that viewers will take it all rather routinely. The film has a point of view and an honesty to it. The leading character may not be one's personal choice for a "hero," yet the fact that this is reportedly autobiographical allows the viewer individual options. As for the film's being "banned," this promises to be yet another futile effort in censorship, which seems largely based on the personal fears of the censors. One thing is for sure, once one sees "Taxi zum Ko," one never quite forgets it.

Frank Ripploh wrote, directed and stars in this autobiographical movie. He's a school teacher in Germany--he's also gay but keeps that a secret from work. He's constantly on the prowl for sex (this was pre-AIDS) and finally meet Bernd. They fall in love...but Ripploh can't stop looking for sex. Will this relationship survive?

Ahead of its time. I'm surprised this movie even got MADE let alone released in 1981. I saw it when I was a closeted college student at an art cinema (the movie had an X rating here). It floored me--it showed two men CAN have a loving relationship despite problems. Also it has some very explicit sex scenes which are presented with no apology or pulling back--these scenes put "Queer As Folk" to shame. Also there's one with a very handsome man called Peter Fahrni which might test the limit for some people (he likes "golden showers").

This is a fascinating look at an early gay relationship before AIDS changed everything. Highly recommended--but not for everyone.

I loved this movie. I found myself glued to it. The leading role is autobiographical and written and directed by Frank Ripploh. Sort of a documentary approach of the life of Frank as a charming schoolteacher by day and a sex driven zany rascal of a guy by night. He's something else. There are very explicit sex scenes that certainly were not repulsed by the actors. Bravo for that. And Mr. Ripploh dosen't have any shortcomings where it counts. We are aware from the start just what we're in for with this movie. I understand it caused much controversy in the 80s when it first came out. I guess because of the sex scenes. But, that's Frank. He's honest. I liked the guy Bernd Broderup who played his lover. At first a pick up, then a live in partner. He had some nice scenes, notably the ice skating scene where they dance together on the pond. And then there's the gas station attendant who finally gets our hero in such a graphic sex scene, I was dumbfounded. But you have to see for yourself what I mean. Go rent this VHS. It's quite an experience. One that stays with you.

I guess it doesn't hurt, 'tho. 'Taxi Zum Klo' is an unflinching tale of a Berlin school teacher (played by the film's writer/director,Frank Ripploh)who lives a highly promiscuous life of (gay)sex,drugs,but no rock & roll,however. I admired the film's honesty & bravado in depicting the central protagonist as an irresponsible,immature person, who has no problem cheating on his lovers. I actually felt a wave of sadness when his live in lover finds Ripploh cheating on him behind his back. This film has a kitchen sink,do it yourself look to it that I admired (it was filmed in 16mm & blown up to 35mm). Be warned:Although this film currently carries no MPAA rating,this is a VERY sexually graphic & explicit film that doesn't flinch in it's depiction of gay sexuality (it landed a self contained 'X' rating,when originally released in the U.S.),so only the most open minded of audiences should approach this one

I watched 'Taxi Zum Klo' in 1985, at my Uni times, at age of 18. That version was a wildly mutilated one, but I had the option of getting the complete version of it much later. Back in 1985, it was the first time I realized I could live a regular life being gay, enjoying it, sharing it. After watching it i told my friends, family and people I loved. Never regretted it. So, this film made a huge impact in my life. I guess there is a small chance of anybody who toke part in the making of this film to read this comment (sadly, not it's director) .If yes, thanks for this film. Twenty years later, I'm more a Frank than a Bernd (LOL), but... thanks anyway.