First up this is a period set, British based horror film, secondly it's adapted from an acclaimed graphic novel by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell.  Thirdly it's based on the true story of Jack the Ripper.  Now  you can see that this is not the recipe for a good movie.  But surprise, surprise, we've got one.

Now everyone has their own opinion/idea of who (or what) Jack the Ripper was.  This is only one version of the events that took place.  This is not the last word, the final decree, the absolute end or case closed.  Just go and see a bunch of good actors, great period detail and directors on top of their game and enjoy the movie.  Johnny Depp is as good as always and his accent is great.  Robbie Coltrane is his reliable self and Heather Graham is always good to look at (ho hum!), if just a little too clean to be a London prozzie during the 1880's.  The main accolade for acting goes to Ian Holm though; who is as distinguished and watch able as usual.

The Hughes Brothers (well known for Menace II Society and Dead Presidents) would seem like an odd choice for a period drama/horror piccie, but they have been making tales of urban angst and inner city malaise and when you think about it From Hell is no different.  The brothers should be applauded for not going down the MTV route and steeping it with fast cuts and swooping camera work (faves of mine, but it would have proved distracting).  There are a couple of "psychedelic moments" but you can forgive them for that.  Instead they have focussed on the story and performances.  Even the killings are subtle, bloody, but not gratuitous, which would have been the easy option.