Times were once when horror cinema set in old English period pieces were fairly commonplace. Universal's classic horror films often took place in a 19th century European setting. So too were a large number of Hammer Horror films and American International Pictures horror films from the same era. It's a long standing tradition dating back to the silent film era horror films and it's a tradition that continues to endure today albeit not in as great a numbers as they once were.
THE LIMEHOUSE GOLEM is one of the latest horror films to continue this great tradition. Set in London during the closing years of the 19th century, the film draws inspiration from a very real life killer from the same era: Jack the Ripper. Of course the first movie that immediately comes to mind to compare with is the 2001 horror graphic novel adaptation FROM HELL. Bill Nighy returns to the world of horror, this time playing the hero on the trail of a ruthless killer.
Like the Western, 19th century horror period pieces have become quite novel in today's horror climate. And when done well you can't help but lose yourself in the narrative.
THE PLOT
A string of murders in London's Limehouse district has the city on edge. The grizzly manner in which these people were killed has led the locals to believe that the legendary creature, the Golem, is responsible. The night of the last Golem murder, popular singer Elizabeth Cree is arrested on suspicion of poisoning her husband. Inspector Kildare is assigned to the Limehouse Golem case. Upon investigating Kildare discovers evidence that may link Elizabeth's husband to the Golem murders. When Elizabeth is sentenced to be hanged, Kildare resolves to close both cases before Elizabeth's execution can be carried out. The deeper Kildare digs into the citizenry of the Limehouse district the more disturbing and twisted secrets he discovers. Elizabeth's execution looms ever closer and the horrors surrounding the Golem grow ever deeper.
THE GOOD
Gruesome. Throughout my tenure studying horror films, I have found that these "true crime" styled films (whether they're based on actual events or not) can be just as horrific and sometimes more so than some of the more fantastic horror films. Limehouse Golem is very gory and very harsh in its subject matter. The murder sequences are quite bloody and given that added level of reality due to the true crime framing. And as Kildare uncovers more secrets about the Limehouse District more disturbing subject matter is displayed, making the movie harsher still.
Twisting Narrative. One of the strongest aspects of this film is the structure. As Kildare investigates the murders the filmmakers use an interesting technique. As Kildare looks into each of the suspects, the film places each actor in the role of the Golem. We the viewers see these actors commit the murders, recite the Golem's quotes, and more. It's a novel approach to exploring the mystery, one I hadn't seen before. It's quite effective and frightening. As is the film is very reminiscent of From Hell, and this is one of the aspects that makes Limehouse Golem stand out.
NITPICKS
(spoiler alert)
THE VERDICT
The Limehouse Golem revives the classic 19th Century European period horror film. A "Jack the Ripper" inspired story, the film follows along a twisting and turning path keeping you guessing and wondering what's next. Brutal bloody imagery and graphic violence punctuate the film, lending the movie a harsh reality. Bill Nighy leads the cast, every actor contributing strong performances. While the premise sounds like a potent remake of the legendary Golem story, if you're a monster fan, don't expect an actual Golem.
Overall Ranking: 7 out of 10
Nude-O-Meter: 3 out of 10
For more bloody mysteries and 19th century period horror check out these other films from across every era of horror cinema
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