Review: Hammer Films Rises From The Dead With DOCTOR JEKYLL

Director Joe Stephenson‘s Doctor Jekyll is a commendable updating of Robert Louis Stephenson’s classic tale with a modern slant. This Hammer Films production successfully marries gothic horror with modern sensibilities, creating a visually striking experience that pays homage to its roots while carving out its own identity.

Eddie Izzard shines as Nina Jekyll, delivering a layered performance that captures the character’s internal conflict. Izzard’s ability to navigate the complexities of Jekyll’s psyche adds depth to the film, making it a compelling watch. The supporting cast also helps contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere, enhancing the sense of dread that permeates the narrative.

Visually, Doctor Jekyll is a treat. The cinematography by Birgit Dierken is stylish and atmospheric and Blair Mowat’s score is an absolute treat, harkening back to the Hammer films of yore. 

While the pacing can be a bit inconsistent, here are enough engaging sequences to keep viewers invested. The clever nods to the original story and the film’s creative choices, such as its striking visual style, make it a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts.

Ultimately, Doctor Jekyll may not completely transcend its genre, but it offers an entertaining and visually captivating experience that honours its source material and showcases the potential of modern horror while reminding us of the timeless appeal of classic tales. For fans of the genre and newcomers alike, this film is a delightful journey into the darker corners of human nature.