Review of From Hell (2001) by Timothy S — 16 Jun 2010

Johnny Depp has made a career out of playing oddball characters, and "From Hell" is certainly no exception. And while his character here is very similar to the one he played in "Sleepy Hollow", the two films are very different. The subject matter here is anything but fresh, but the Hughes Brothers but their own unique stamp on the picture. Two African American filmmakers may have seemed like an unlikely choice to helm this movie, but they're the biggest key to the film's success. This familiar material is given a much-needed breath of fresh air. It's a beautiful picture filled with amazing shots that bring it to life.

Depp is once again terrific, making the performance his own with his nuances and idiosyncracies. Heather Graham shows she's more than just a pretty face making the most of her stock prostitute role, and Robbie Coltrane breaks out of his second banana role as Depp's right hand man.

The script is smart, giving great insight's into the Ripper's identity, even going as far as connecting him to the Queen of England. I don't know how accurate that is, but it's sure fun to think about. I especially liked the tragic ending that fits in perfectly with the tone and mood of the film. It's a downer, but it's also a perfect way to conclude the picture. It's a thrilling, macabre and intelligent thriller with the Hughes Brothers channeling Tim Burton.