‘No one is safe’
Ripper Untold is a 2021 British horror film about an inspector and a medical examiner investigating a series of murders in Victorian London. However, one of them harbours a deadly secret…
Written and directed by Steve Lawson (Jekyll and Hyde; Saltwater: The Battle for Ramree Island; Bram Stoker’s Van Helsing; The Haunting of Alcatraz; Pentagram; The Exorcism of Karen Walker; Hellriser; KillerSaurus; et al).
A sequel, Ripper’s Revenge, followed in 2022.
The Creativ Studios production stars Jonathan Hansler (The Lockdown Hauntings; Vampire Virus; The Haunting of Alcatraz; The Devil’s Machine; Nocturnal Activity; The Devil’s Business), Phil Molloy, Dawn Butler, Chris Bell (The Heiress; Knights of the Damned; The Curse of Robert; Haunted franchise), Jacob Anderton (I Am Vengeance: Retaliation; Tales from the Lodge; 13 Graves; Ripper 2016 short; Scarecrow 2014) and Marcus Langford (The Haunting of Alcatraz; Vigilante Style; Hellriser).
Our review:
Steve Lawson’s contribution to the mass of Ripper-themed movies deviates from the facts to present a new twist on the oft-told tale of serial killings in 19th-century Whitechapel. Serious Ripperologists won’t relish the plot but for casual viewers, this is a somewhat sedate yet intriguing take on the infamous unsolved murders. There are also some elements of social awareness and points about class and racism that add depth without being preachy.
Overall, it’s more of a mystery crime drama than a horror movie although there are brief gruesome glimpses of three female victims. Those paying close attention will probably guess the identity of the killer midway but there is still a degree of tension as the investigation unravels. Aside from one key role, performances are fine from the conspicuously limited cast. Despite an obviously limited budget, there is decent period detail. Ripper Untold is worth a watch for genre fans.
Adrian J Smith, MOVIES & MANIA
Other reviews:
” …don’t expect much excitement. The budget obviously didn’t allow much, which is why there is a cosy search for clues instead of murder horror. One can puzzle a bit. But you can also leave it alone, especially since the story has hardly anything to do with the template.” Film Rezenionen [translated from German]
“Lawson shows particular respect and attention to the unfortunate victims, struck with inhuman fury by an unsuspecting hand, only revealed in the finale with a surprising twist. The beautiful cinematography, paired with a sweet and melancholy soundtrack, Ripper Untold thus becomes one of the most interesting films (intended for a wide audience) loosely inspired by the most famous and ruthless London serial killer.” Film TV [translated from Italian]
“The film’s pacing is unhurried and although it’s well acted and the period design is well handled I feel that it takes more than a stream of dialogue scenes to keep one’s attention especially when the narrative is based around the infamous Jack the Ripper, it really needs that something more to truly stand-up to its subject matter.” My Bloody Reviews
“The atmosphere of 19th century London is established with a moody and sometimes mournful soundtrack, small limited sets that are mainly contained to single rooms or alleyways, and establishing shots of London landmarks from the time. Ripper Untold is a low thrills horror that nonetheless had me enjoying it. I like the topic anyway and it was interesting to see how this indie thriller got around concessions to budget.” The Rotting Zombie
” …while Ripper Untold takes the subject seriously it takes a lot of liberties with the facts. The characters are still interesting but don’t expect the names you’re familiar with from the historical accounts of the killings. Taken as a character-driven mystery, Ripper Untold is interesting enough to hold one’s interest. Just don’t expect a slasher. Or much horror of any kind.” Voices from the Balcony
Release:
In the UK, Ripper Untold was released on DVD by High Fliers Films on June 28th 2021.
The film is also available to buy or rent via Amazon Prime.
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