From Hell, the six graphic novels which comprise Alan Thomas� dark and dedicated exploration of the Jack the Ripper case, are filmed by the Hughes Brothers, who made their names on such films as Menace II Society. This surprising combination was given further credit by casting Johnny Depp, Heather Graham and (fresh from the Fellowship) Ian Holm.
Unfortunately the result is a limp and uninspiring retelling of the tale, complete with a heavy dose of supposition. Depp�s Inspector Aberline, unconventional, unappreciated yet effective, is far too similar to Sleepy Hollow�s Ichabod Crane and although his accent is not outrageously fake, he�s obviously no native Londoner. Heather Graham continues to think that just staring with big doleful eyes constitutes acting and is therefore as devoid of charisma as usual, while the rest of the cast (Robbie Coltrane included) seem to be well aware that they are being paid a damn sight more than usual to just cater to stereotypes.
The plot drags along from one killing to the next, and seeing as most people will be at least vaguely acquainted with the events there is no real dramatic urgency to the tale, until the end where they can�t leave it unsolved so just make up a culprit for a bit of intrigue. Even the dream sequences, while as grotesque as promised, fail to really reach out and grab you, remaining as un-engaging as the rest of the package. |
