The Ghost (1982 film)
| Das Gespenst The Ghost | |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Herbert Achternbusch |
| Written by | Herbert Achternbusch |
| Produced by | Herbert Achternbusch |
| Starring | Herbert Achternbusch |
| Cinematography | Jörg Schmidt-Reitwein |
| Edited by | Micki Joanni |
Release date |
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Running time | 88 minutes |
| Country | West Germany |
| Language | German |
The Ghost (German: Das Gespenst) is a 1982 West German black-and-white film directed by and starring Herbert Achternbusch. It was entered into the 33rd Berlin International Film Festival. This tragicomic satire explores the clash between a resurrected Jesus and the modern world, provoking controversy for its perceived blasphemy. Initially denied classification by the German film rating board (FSK) and facing reduced state funding, the film sparked public protests, legal challenges, and intense media debate. Despite—or because of—its notoriety, it attracted significant attention and viewership. The film was banned in Austria under laws against religious disparagement, a prohibition that remains in effect. It was later reclassified and released on DVD in Germany in 2008.