Victorian gore and splatter

Rating: 6/10 (27 April 2002)

Well, you can't possibly expect to see a movie from the year 2001 about Jack the Ripper, without sickening scenes. It's strange however how this graphic violence has become common in many mainstream films nowadays. And its getting worse all the time.
"From Hell" is better than one did imagine. Most credit goes to the East End environment (filmed in Prague actually). But not just the environment, but also the make-up, the clothing, the mood of this area is to be believed as authentical.
But Johnny Depp isn't good. He goes through the whole film with the same expression, even while "chasing the dragon" in the opium dens. Better acting comes from Heather Graham and many things have been said about her being too pretty, but that's not important She is believeable and so is definitely Robbie Coltrane as the police sergeant.
Two hours don't appear to be too long. It is entertaining all the time, if you can take cut throats and ripped out hearts. Does the story hold together? Well, the end is surprising. And somewhat happy, despite of everything.