FROM HELL, based on a graphic novel (i.e. a big fancy name for a big fancy comic book), follows London investigator Frederick Abberline (Johnny Depp, EDWARD SCISSORHANDS) as he tracks down Jack the Ripper. The plot is pretty much a standard thriller, but the direction and style make it something that I loved. The mood and look reminded me of Tim Burton's SLEEPY HOLLOW, which was another standard thriller that rose above its script because of its performances and design.
This flick was directed by the Hughes Brothers (MENACE II SOCIETY, DEAD PRESIDENTS) with the passion of two guys who have read every little fact and theory about Jack the Ripper. My favorite part of the film is its desire to be detailed about its era. It weaves in all the seedy and current events of 1888 England, including Buffalo Bill's Wild West Shows and John Merrick, the Elephant Man. The story also mixes "real life" characters and theories with literary influences — Abberline and Godley aren't far off from Holmes and Watson.
Besides the mystery, the film has an underlying level that's pretty interesting. The film opens with a quote from Jack the Ripper: "One day men will say I gave birth to the 20th century." This quote becomes ever more chilling as the film develops and we see a country that will go to great lengths to hide its sins. By basing the story on real conspiracy theories, the film is infused with an intangible energy. It also makes it a lot of fun.
Depp gives a wonderfully subtle performance as the opium addicted detective. Another treat is a wonderful performance by Robbie Coltrane as Johnny Depp's sidekick, Peter Godley. Coltrane brings real heart to his character, making him more than just a partner for Abberline to talk to. Playing Depp's love interest and potential Ripper victim, prostitute Mary Kelly, is Heather Graham (BOOGIE NIGHTS). She never ruins the film, but her cockney accent isn't the best I've heard. Always welcome to any cast is Ian Holm (THE SWEET HEREAFTER) as Sir William Gull, a doctor who aids Abberline.
In embracing the nuances of 1888 London, the Hughes Brothers strongly connect the privileged elite to the ghetto trash in their lurid tale of a killer who came from the "morally superior" class and preyed on society's unfortunates. This is a scandal that happens in more than one way in the film. Abberline and Kelly's relationship hopes to bridge the divide, but can it when the whole system is corrupt from the top down?
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
