Very different, very good, very atmospheric

Rating: 8/10 (26 January 2009)

There are many horror-mysteries which take their inspiration from historic events that are memorized as one of the most horrifying deeds man has ever done. Most of those films are so occupied with the perpetrator that everything else regarding films becomes less important and so does the film in its entirety. That is not case with this movie.
The Hughes brothers made very impressive film, faithfully creating 19th century London and well build up characters and atmosphere from graphic novel. What I liked in particularly was depth that was achieved in explaining (or said better examination) motivation behind murders - madness and motivation of murderer are done in very impressive way almost trying to get inside his head. Portrait of low and high class London was presented is not less impressive way. Everything was spiced with little bit art approach that fits perfectly - European influence worked very well in this movie.
Acting is on high level, starting from Johnny Depp who, as usual, gives unique touch to his character to Robbie Coltrane and Ian Holm, all giving good performances and fit their roles very good, except Heather Graham. I must admit her acting wasn't so convincing, it's very hard to believe her character is a prostitute (but not because of her charming performance).
There are few explicit scenes but directors mostly rely on formula "things you don't see makes you even more scared when left to your imagination", although I wouldn't recommend this film to children or those with really weak stomach. Without those scenes, I think, film would loose some of its "creepiness", and does not leave you with feeling directors put it there just so the film would be described as horror.
For all those who fancy mysteries and don't mind few harsh scenes, go ahead, From Hell is more than decent film.