From Hell MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -3

Jack the Ripper could very well be the most famous serial killer to ever live. FROM HELL, based on a fictional graphic novel, brings the exploits of Jack back to life. When prostitutes are brutally murdered and mutilated in the White Chapel district of London, Inspector Abberline (Johnny Depp) is placed on the case. Known for having visions of the crimes before they happen, Abberline begins to investigate the murders. He makes use of Mary Kelly (Heather Graham), a friend of the victims, and retired surgeon Sir William Gull (Ian Holm). As he tries to keep Mary from becoming the next victim, Sir William helps Abberline determine the kind of man Jack might be. Abberline soon finds the trail leading into dark corners of society where he is neither safe nor welcome. Dark and gloomy in its setting, FROM HELL capture the look of late 19th century fog-shrouded London. Johnny Depp does a tremendous job of bringing his character to life, and while the tension is not as high as it could be, FROM HELL turns out to be a solid mystery and thriller.

Jack the Ripper not only killed his victims, he mutilated them. In the film, while the mutilations are not shown, there are some graphic descriptions of what the killer has done. That is not to say the film is without violence; a couple of graphic scenes depict women getting their throats cut. The viewers often see Jack leaning over the bodies, stabbing and cutting, but only a bloody knife is sometimes shown. While a few scenes deal with the prostitutes’ activities, one graphic sex scene includes explicit motion with female breast nudity. Some foul language occurs as well, most notably 11 non-Victorian f-words. With graphic violence, explicit sexual content and vulgar language, FROM HELL is a suitable description of this film.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: 20th Century Fox, 10201 W. Pico Blvd., LA, CA 90035