We should always beware when Hollywood attempts to "update" the classics, and we are usually disappointed when they do. The new film "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is the exception to the rule. Though the original novella was considered groundbreaking and shocking for it's time, by today's standards it is tame and not as earth shattering as it once was. Perhaps this is because of the many stage, and film adaptations based on the original work. Most are dull and boring. To be sure, there are some classic movies and television plays, including the great, silent John Barrymore version, the wonderful Frederick March film, and the Dan Curtis produced TV version starring Jack Palance. We may now add a new winning adaptation to the lexicon of Jekyll and Hyde. This is a contemporary retelling of the story and this adaptation takes some liberties in translating it to the screen. --But then again, what screen adaptations don't take liberties? This is a fun, fast paced, horror film that delivers the goods! Writer/director John Carl Buechler is no stranger to horror icons. He directed Friday the 13th part 7, and created the stunning visual and make-up effects for numerous horror classics in the 1980's, including; Nightmare on Elm Street, and the Halloween movie franchises. In many ways he has structured is vision of the literary classic as a sort of retro nod to those vintage eighties horror pix. It is fast, furious, often funny, and absolutely terrifying at times. In the first few minutes of the movie, the screen explodes with action, mystery and gore. I don't want to reveal the excellent new slant this picture brings to light, but suffice to say the picture is both inventive and spine tingling. Perhaps the reason that this picture works so well is that as an independent film, it was made on a modest budget, with no studio interference. Either way, Tony Todd is great in the dual roles of Jekyll and Hyde, his ability to combine humor and pathos is nothing less than genius. Se it on the big screen with a full house if you can.
