Historical Studio’s Bold Modern Twist

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MOVIE REVIEW
Doctor Jekyll
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Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Joe Stephenson
Writer(s): Dan Kelly-Mulhern, Robert Louis Stevenson
Cast: Eddie Izzard, Scott Chambers, Lindsay Duncan, Simon Callow, Jonathan Hyde, Morgan Watkins, Robyn Cara, Isabella Inchbald, Tony Jayawardena
Where To Watch: opening in select theaters and VOD August 2, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Did you know that the icon Hammer Films still existed (at least in name.) I didn’t until the stunning opening credit sequence here. With a refreshing twist on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic 1886 novella, DOCTOR JEKYLL dives into the eerie realms of dual personalities through the lens of director Joe Stephenson. As Dr. Nina Jekyll, Eddie Izzard infuses a unique perspective into the saga, playing alongside Scott Chambers as Rob, a troubled man seeking to mend his life and familial ties. The film takes us deep into the haunting estate of Dr. Jekyll, where shadows and light dance under Birgit Dirken’s artful cinematography, underscored by Blair Mowat’s chilling compositions.

The setting of DOCTOR JEKYLL is a sprawling, mysterious estate that almost breathes with its own life, providing a perfect playground for the mind games and suspense that unfold. The cinematography expertly crafts a gothic ambiance that is as much a part of the narrative as the characters themselves, setting a tone that shifts seamlessly from intriguing to menacing.

Stephenson strategically steers the storyline away from the usual horror clichés, opting for a build-up of tension that taps into the viewers’ psyche rather than relying on typical scare tactics. This approach, while innovative, does experience pacing issues mid-film where the tension could have been tightened rather than allowed to linger. It also pulls us away from the classic story of Stevenson’s iconic tale.

At the heart of DOCTOR JEKYLL is the complex and evolving relationship between Izzard’s Jekyll and Chambers’ Rob. Their interaction is a dynamic dance of emotional depth that portrays the struggle between past burdens and the quest for redemption. However, the film occasionally misses the mark on fully exploring the potential of Jekyll’s transition theme, merely brushing over what could have been a pivotal narrative aspect. I don’t know if this was at Izzard’s request, but it feels like a missed opportunity.

DOCTOR JEKYLL shines when it explores the duality of human nature, enhanced by modern-day issues such as addiction and personal struggle. It seamlessly blends these elements with Stevenson’s timeless themes. Despite its few narrative missteps, the film is a testament to Hammer Films’ revival, skillfully marrying gothic elements with psychological intricacies.

This film is a must-see for gothic and psychological thriller enthusiasts. It offers a fresh interpretation of classic horror elements combined with innovative storytelling. It’s an homage to Hammer’s legacy and an intriguing direction for the studio’s future, promising to engage seasoned fans and newcomers.

In revisiting Stevenson’s tale, DOCTOR JEKYLL is a testament to ancient horror traditions and a bold leap toward new cinematic horizons. It marries the nostalgia of Hammer’s past glories with a fresh, innovative perspective, ensuring its place as a notable chapter in the studio’s rich history. This blend of old and new is poised to resonate widely, cementing the film as an essential viewing experience.

@hammer_films

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[photo courtesy of HAMMER FILMS]

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