Based on the novel of the same name by Marie Belloc Lowndes, this thriller was brought to the screen in 1944. Set in gas-lit London, it is the story of Jack the Ripper and the panic and paranoia that followed the killings in Whitechapel that terrible summer of 1888. Directed by John Brahm, this film is marked by many fine performances and features. The cinematography by Lucien Ballard is superb and is fundamental to the chilling, eerie atmosphere that so deftly and subtly dominates this intriguing film.
Merle Oberon, who plays beautiful Kitty Langley, fell in love with Lucien Ballard and they married the year after the picture was made. Facial scars sustained in a car accident presented cinematic challenges to Ballard, and he came to the rescue of the beautiful star. He developed a new and unique light that concealed her blemishes. To this day, such lighting is referred to as the “Obie.”
Sara Allgood and Cedric Hardwicke are excellent as the unsuspecting landlords who rent a room to the mysterious Mister Slade, and soon suspect that something is very wrong with their new boarder. George Saunders is strong and memorable as the policeman falling in love with Miss Langley (Oberon). These co-stars, however, excellent though they are, only enhance Laird Cregar, who steals the show as the menacing psychopath consumed with rage and madness. His great mad eyes capture viewers and transport them into his world as he roams the London streets in search of victims to quench his blood lust.
This film is a must see for all lovers of the horror/thriller genre. It is mesmerizing and powerful and, unfortunately, was the last film in the career of Laird Cregar who died just a few months after the film’s release.
What are some of your favorite scenes from this classic movie?