The Limehouse Golem (2016)

The Limehouse Golem (Dir: Juan Carlos Medina, 2016). 

The Limehouse Golem combines elements of the detective thriller and the horror in a nicely atmospheric Victorian era murder mystery; adapted by Jane Goldman from Peter Ackroyd's 1994 novel Dan Leno and the Limehouse Golem.

Taking its cue from the real life Jack the Ripper murders The Limehouse Golem weaves factual characters into the fictional story of serial murderer terrorising the docklands area of London's Limehouse in the 1800s. On investigating the poisoning by music hall entertainer Elizabeth Cree (Olivia Cooke) of her husband, police Inspector John Kildare (Bill Nighy) uncovers evidence to suggest that the murdered man was the serial killer. The race is on to prove the husband was the Golem and clear Elizabeth’s name before she is executed. Dan Leno (Douglas Booth) is the real life music hall star who has taken Elizabeth under his wing and relates her story to the audience. 

I am not the biggest fan of the horror movie genre and those that do appeal to me generally rely less on gore and more on atmosphere. The Limehouse Golem does have its fair share of gory moments but I feel, considering the subject, it is largely justified. This is a dark movie but one which is often beautiful to behold. From the extravagant sets and costumes of the music hall to the moodily lit East End backstreets; credit goes to cinematographer Simon Dennis for the exquisite evocation of the Victorian period.

Just as much a detective thriller as a horror, the movie utilises a classic 'ticking clock' narrative with a neat twist in the tale. Bill Nighy and Olivia Cooke are standouts among the quality cast. As is Douglas Booth who excels as the flamboyant Leno. Eddie Marsan and Daniel Mays offer sterling support. 

The Limehouse Golem may disappoint those looking for a traditional horror. However, those with a taste for an off-kilter mystery, stylishly directed and with consummate production values should find much to enjoy.