FROM HELL

2001

Some people might find it surprising that this film was directed by the Hughes brothers, who are better known for their stories about "the 'hood," ("Menace II Society" and "Dead Presidents.") "From Hell" is yet another re-telling of the Jack the Ripper story, set in Victorian England. When you stop to think of it there is a commonality. The Hughes brothers films deal with urban violence in ghettos, whether in the Bronx or in London. Johnny Depp plays a drug-addled inspector (type-casting?) who is investigating the brutal mutilation of prostitutes in the hellish Whitechapel district of Queen Victoria's London. He sees visions...and then they happen. Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid in the upcoming "Harry Potter" film) plays his sidekick. One of the prime theories of who Jack the Ripper was, is explored here, and I won't give it away by telling you anymore of the plot. The cinematography is very atmospheric, creating a dark and frightening London slum, and the actors are very comfortable in their roles. Depp and Heather Graham should be praised for their fine lower class London accents. As in other Hughes brothers films, the plot, characterization, and dialogue don't always live up to the visual imagery of the film, but it's a fine job, and a credit to the Hughes brothers for taking a risky chance. Spike Lee, listen up. How about getting out of "the 'hood" and tackling "Frankenstein?"

4 Stars

NJB

2 Stars

CDF