a good period piece

Rating: Null/10 (26 March 2003)

Vivid, dark, atmospheric thriller is an effective retelling of the infamous murderer Jack the Ripper. The story focuses on brilliant but troubled police inspector Depp in Victorian era London who uses his unearthly tactics to investigate a series of grisly murders while tracking the killer, eventually forming a close bond with prostitute and potential victim Graham in the process. The film plods at times, but it's well-acted and designed, full of engrossing moments, and has an effectively eerie and spine-chilling feel throughout. Not for the squeamish goes without saying, but it's still an impressive and ambitious period piece from the creators of Menace II Society. ***