DOCTOR JEKYLL - Review
DISTRIBUTOR: Hammer Studios
SYNOPSIS: In a contemporary adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's novella, "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde," Nina Jekyll, is secluded as she recovers from an undisclosed incident. Seeking assistance, she interviews candidates for a live-in personal assistant to provide companionship, manage her meals, and assist with medication. She establishes a bond with her newly employed helper, Rob, and together they must collaborate to prevent Hyde from destroying her life. However, as Rob settles into the household, Dr. Jekyll experiences peculiar mood shifts, becoming hostile towards him.
REVIEW: Over the years, Robert Louis Stevenson's novella, "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde," has been adapted numerous times for both the big and small screens. In 1971, Hammer Films released their unique take on the novella, titled "Dr. Jekyll & Sister Hyde," directed by Roy Ward Baker. This adaptation featured a gender-bending twist. Approximately 50 years later, Hammer Films is releasing a new adaptation of Stevenson's novella, starring actor Eddie Izzard. This latest adaptation promises to bring a fresh perspective to the classic tale.
Dan Kelly-Mulhern's approach to the material is subtle and reserved. The story unfolds predominantly on Dr. Jekyll's estate, with a few additional locations, such as Rob's flat, a market, and a bar. The estate, a lavish British property, confines the action to a limited number of rooms, including the classic "locked room" trope. The plot unravels as Rob finds himself ensnared between Jekyll and her enigmatic "secretary," Sandra, who disapproves of Rob's presence. Initially, it is unclear whether Jekyll's medication or a peculiar green cigarette is responsible for her erratic mood swings, which intensify over time. Rob, depicted as somewhat naive, fails to recognize himself as the prey in this dangerous game of cat and mouse. The third act serves as a pivotal turning point, where all pretenses are dropped, and Rob is confronted with a crucial decision that drastically alters his perceived reality. Kelly-Mulhern's work presents several elements that could have been further explored for a more profound examination of the concepts of good and evil, as well as morality. At its core, the story primarily delves into the character study of Jekyll and, to a lesser extent, Rob. Notably, an aspect of the tale evokes the feeling of a staged play, particularly in its lack of smooth transitions when Jekyll transforms into Hyde.
The captivating performance of Eddie Izzard as Doctor Jekyll adds compelling layers to the film. Izzard's screen presence exudes the essence of British society, transitioning effortlessly between empathy and sociopathy. In particular, there are scenes where Izzard seamlessly shifts between vulnerability and authority, creating a dynamic interplay with Rob, played by Scott Chambers.
Chambers' portrayal of Rob prevents him from being merely a bad character. He allows the audience to perceive his character's flaws and bad choices without judging him as inherently evil. The chemistry between Izzard and Chambers is undeniable, contributing to their captivating performances.
The supporting cast, comprised of talented British actors, provides solid performances that enhance the narrative. Their collective efforts contribute to the film's overall intensity.
DOCTOR JEKYLL boasts strong production elements. While it lacks a distinct "wow" factor, the costumes, locations, lighting, editing, and production design coalesce to craft an engaging and cohesive world that serves as a riveting backdrop for the story. Blair Mowat's musical score deserves special mention, as it effectively complements the film's atmosphere, enhancing the emotional impact of the performances. Occasionally, the score evokes the classic Hammer film scores.
Hammer's first new film in decades, DOCTOR JEKYLL, deviates from expectations of a modern interpretation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novella. Set in a contemporary yet classical environment, the narrative seems shallow, failing to address the novella's profound questions. However, Eddie Izzard and Scott Chambers' captivating performances create an engaging cat-and-mouse dynamic. While the film's climax features an unexpected twist, incorporating supernatural elements that I found unconvincing, DOCTOR JEKYLL ultimately remains a solid film. Despite its inability to fully embrace the complexities of Stevenson's tale, it falters in the climax.
CAST: Eddie Izzard, Scott Chambers, Lindsay Duncan, Simon Callow, Jonathan Hyde, Morgan Watkins, Robyn Cara, Isabella Inchbald, & Tony Jayawardena.
CREW: Director/Producer/Editor - Joe Stephenson; Screenplay - Dan Kelly-Mulhern; Based on “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson; Producers - Liam Coutts & Guy de Beaujeu; Cinematographer - Birgit Dierken; Score - Blair Mowat; Editor - Andrew Hulme; Production Designer - Natalie O’Connor; Costume Designer - Libby Irwin; Special Effects Artist - James Onley; Visual Effects - Lexhag Visual Effects.
OFFICIAL: www.doctorjekyll.film
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/hammerfilms
TWITTER: https://x.com/hammerfilms
TRAILER: https://youtu.be/5aJR5fnMGDA?si=s7yMle_CrVkdRj3H
RELEASE DATE: In theaters & VOD August 2nd, 2024.
**Until we can all head back into the theaters our “COVID Reel Value” will be similar to how you rate a film on digital platforms - 👍 (Like), 👌 (It’s just okay), or 👎 (Dislike)
Reviewed by Joseph B Mauceri
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Doctor Jekyll
Doctor Jekyll (2023)
#JoeStephenson #EddieIzzard #ScottChambers #LindsayDuncan #SimonCallow #JonathanHyde
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Jahr: 2023 (Oktober)
Genre: Drama / Horror / Mystery
Regie: Joe Stephenson
Hauptrollen: Eddie Izzard, Scott Chambers, Lindsay Duncan, Simon Callow, Jonathan Hyde, Morgan Watkins, Robyn Cara …
Filmbeschreibung: Eine moderne Neuinterpretation des berüchtigten Dr. Jekyll aus Robert Louis Stevensons 1886 erschienener Novelle Der seltsame Fall des Dr. Jekyll und Mr. Hyde…
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