Cast
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Klaus Kinski
as Dr. Dennis Orloff / Jack the Ripper
Josephine Chaplin
as Cynthia
Andreas Mannkopff
as Inspektor Selby
Herbert Fux
as Charlie, the Fisherman
Lina Romay
as Marika Stevenson
Nikola Weisse
as Frieda
Hans Gaugler
as Mr. Bridger
Ursula von Wiese
as Ms. Higgins
Francine Custer
as Sally Brown
Olga Gebhard
as Mrs. Baxter
Angelika Arndts
as Mrs. Stevenson
Peter Nüsch
as Sergeant Ruppert
Esther Studer
as Jeanny
Regine Elsener
as Blondy
Lorli Bucher
as Lulu
Crew
Director
- Jesús Franco
Producer
- Erwin C. Dietrich
- Max Dora
Reviews
Wuchak
**_“Any back alley street is where we'll probably meet”_**
Helmed by Jess Franco and released in 1976, “Jack the Ripper” is a well-done interpretation of the serial killer of the Whitechapel district of London with Klaus Kinski in the title role. Keep in mind that the murderer was never identified or arrested and so every cinematic account that reveals the killer’s identity is a fabrication. This is Victorian horror in the manner of Hammer’s "Hands of the Ripper" (1971), which dealt with the hypothetical daughter of the Whitechapel slasher, as well as "The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll" (1960). The latter is the better of the two and this one’s about on par with it.
I realize that "The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll" dealt with the fictitious Mr. Hyde, but the two killers are somewhat linked in that Stevenson’s novella was published 2.5 years before the Ripper slayings debuted; and the stage production of “Dr. Jekyll” in London, 1888, had to be shut down due to the hysteria over the ghastly Ripper killings in which even those who merely played murderers on stage were considered suspects. For a colorful low-budget production that combines the two slayers, check out "Edge of Sanity" (1989) with Anthony Perkins.
Like “Edge of Sanity,” this version with Klaus Kinski doesn't hold back with its depictions of the sadistic and debauched. As such, there's an amount of sordidness and gore, which is apropos in light of the grisly subject. If you're in the mood for a Victorian milieu, black coats, London fog, cobblestone streets, gas lamps, alluring women, burlesque entertainment, a ghastly killer and lush colors, "Jack the Ripper" should fill the bill. It's the precursor to "From Hell" (2001), 25 years earlier.
Lina Romay (not the elder singer from America) stands out on the feminine front as brunette Cabaret dancer Marika. She happened to be the quickie director’s mate for four decades (they officially married in 2008, four years before her death; Jess died from a stroke the following year). There are a couple of other notable females, of course. I should add that there’s some nudity with one thin actress shown totally nude; just a heads up.
The flick runs 1 hour, 31 minutes, and was shot in Zürich, Switzerland, which is about fifteen miles from the border of southwest Germany. Establishing shots were done in London.
GRADE: B
Sep 7, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Jack the Ripper examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Jesús Franco brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1976, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Jack the Ripper took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1148 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1976, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jack the Ripper shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Swarna Kaduva, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Jack the Ripper subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Ex and Cover Up explore similar territory, Jack the Ripper stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 23, 1976
- Runtime: 1h 32m
Where to Watch
