Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical
Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical

Movie spotlight

Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical

2001
Movie
135 min
English

Musical version of the Robert Louis Stevenson story about a doctor who conducts an experiment on himself that results in his bringing out the dark, murderous side of his inner self, "Mr. Hyde".

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Frank Wildhorn (music), Leslie Bricusse (lyrics and book)Genres: Musical, Drama, Horror

Plot Summary

In Victorian London, the brilliant but troubled Dr. Henry Jekyll is driven by his father's mental illness to find a cure for the human condition's duality. His experiments with a volatile concoction lead to the creation of the monstrous and debauched Edward Hyde, who wreaks havoc on the city and Jekyll's own life, particularly his relationships with his fiancée Emma and prostitute Lucy. Jekyll struggles to regain control as Hyde's influence grows, leading to a tragic confrontation.

Critical Reception

The 2001 Broadway production of 'Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical' received mixed to positive reviews, particularly for its powerful score and dramatic performances. While some critics found the book to be uneven or melodramatic, the show's ambitious themes and Wildhorn's bombastic score garnered significant attention. It was a commercial success, running for over 1,500 performances.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its impressive musical score, particularly powerful ballads.

  • Criticized by some for a predictable or overly melodramatic plot.

  • Admired for its ambitious attempt to tackle dark themes within a musical format.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical' generally highlights the memorable and powerful songs, with many appreciating the dark and dramatic storytelling. The performances are often cited as a strong point, contributing to an emotionally engaging experience.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for four Tony Awards in 1997 for its original Broadway run (though the 2001 release is based on this run). Received nominations for Best Original Score, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Actress in a Musical, and Best Book of a Musical.

Fun Fact

The musical's score was developed over more than a decade by composer Frank Wildhorn, with various iterations and songs being written and rewritten before the show finally premiered on Broadway in 1997.

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