Carl Schenkel was born on May 8, 1948, in Berne, Switzerland, and later relocated to Frankfurt, Germany, where he worked as a journalist while simultaneously pursuing a degree in sociology. This marked the beginning of his journey into the film industry, which he entered in the mid-1970s as a script collaborator and assistant director.
Before long, Schenkel made his feature directorial debut with the lowbrow horror comedy "Dracula Blows His Cool" in 1979, a film that showcased his versatility and range as a writer and director. His subsequent 1984 thriller "Abwarts" garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning several awards at various film festivals.
Throughout his career, Schenkel directed a diverse range of motion pictures, made-for-TV features, and television episodes, including segments of the popular series "The Hitchhiker" and "Profiler." In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Schenkel also dabbled in advertising, penning copy and directing television commercials.
Tragically, Carl Schenkel's life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 55 due to heart failure at his home in Los Angeles, California, on December 1, 2003.