Tweekums I got the DVD of this series free with the newspaper and wasn't sure what to expect; in fact I initially assumed it was a film as it stars Michael Caine! One could be forgiven for thinking it was a film right up until the half way point when the first episode ends as it has a surprisingly cinematic look. There are always going to be some difficulties in bringing the Ripper case to the screen; the largest of which being that it is probably the most famous unsolved case in history and a good story needs a proper conclusion. In this adaptation that problem is handled fairly well by showing a culprit then giving an logical explanation as to why the public must never know… of course after all this time it is almost certain that we will never learn who the ripper was. For those unfamiliar with the story it is 1888 and somebody is murdering prostitutes in Whitechapel them mutilating them in a way that suggests a good knowledge of anatomy. Chief Inspector Abberline is put on the case but it isn't going to be easy; the local police seem keener to clean up the mess than to preserve a crime scene, the populace don't want to talk to the police and a rabble-rouser is whipping up a mob because 'the police are doing nothing'. Abberline and his Sergeant, Sgt. Godley persevere however and establish a long list of suspects that includes doctors, an actor, a psychic and even a grandson of Queen Victoria herself! I really enjoyed this, although in hindsight I think it would have been better to watch the two parts separately rather than in one sitting… it is quite long! Michael Caine, in a rare TV performance is great as Abberline and is ably supported by Lewis Collins as Sgt. Godley the rest of cast were pretty good too. I quite liked how they got around the problem of solving a real unsolved crime and the wide variety of suspects kept me guessing to the end. While there is no swearing or nudity there are scenes showing the Ripper's victims, which some viewers may find disturbing, although they are still fairly tame by today's standards. If you like a good mystery drama this is certainly worth watching… especially if you see it being given away on a newspaper; even if it isn't your usual read.

haniball5 Just great!This is the best TV-production I have ever seen.First time I saw it at the age of 8, it was awesome. But I could hardly remind.I have just known that it was a well done movie with a great Atmospher and thrilling suspense.I bought the film and my expectations were exceeded.A movie which can take it on with Jack the ripper is "The count of monte christo" with gerade depardieu. It's a trilogy which is also god work.

Jamie Moffat When I first saw this telemovie back in the late 1980s, I found myself wondering if the film makers actually believed the theory they were peddling. The DVD commentary makes it clear that they take it very seriously indeed, which somehow reduces the impact of the piece.Taken as a blood and thunder melodrama, this is good fun. But as a recreation of London's East End in the 1880s, it leaves a great deal deal to be desired. The depiction of prostitution is particularly inaccurate. The Ripper's victims were not, on the whole, the good hearted floozies depicted here. They were alcoholic, washed out drabs, homeless and aimless. And the depiction of George Lusk as a left wing agitator is way off base.No matter, its diverting entertainment. But its only real historical value lies in its depiction of the hysteria that the Ripper murders engendered in the population. If you believe the denouement, and the explanation of the Ripper's identity, drop me a line. I'd like to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge.

wriglee Hi all. In this film,the way they piece together the clues is just amazing! None of us really know what really happened in 1888,but i have watched this film,over,and over again,and i find it definitive. But,this was made before the discovery of 'The diary of jack the ripper'And thats another story! I love the cast in this 1988 film,it,s a sensible portrayal of a true mystery,and i rate this very high,(mistakes aside) If you look at the facts in this film,they REALLY do make sense!!!The coach theory,where there was a driver and a killer is very interesting,it might explain why not much blood was found at the murder scene! I,m glad this film cut out the gore,and concentrated on the mystery,this is a MUST for any ripperoligist! Excellent!