Julia Roberts' career has spanned numerous hits, from the romantic comedy "Pretty Woman" to the legal drama "Erin Brockovich". But amidst the accolades, there's a lesser-known film that stands out: "Mary Reilly". This 1996 gothic horror film, based on Valerie Martin's novel, retells the classic story of "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" from the perspective of Jekyll's maid, Mary. Despite its initial release being a critical and commercial flop, "Mary Reilly" found a champion in none other than legendary film critic Roger Ebert.
Ebert's three-star review for the Chicago Sun-Times praised the film's understanding of the gothic genre and its faithful adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's original story. He highlighted the film's focus on the underlying horror rather than special effects or makeup, emphasizing the powerless young woman's struggle with sympathy and horror. Ebert's appreciation for the film's dark and gloomy atmosphere, as well as its performances, set it apart from the majority of negative reviews.
The film's challenges began during production. It faced several false starts, with renowned directors and actors like Tim Burton, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Uma Thurman being associated with the project at different stages. Finally, Julia Roberts, then one of the biggest movie stars in the world, was cast as Mary Reilly. John Malkovich played the dual roles of Jekyll and Hyde, but the film's release was plagued by rumors of trouble. Bumped out of awards season to a February 1996 release date, it received a critical bloodbath, with many reviewers taking aim at Roberts' acting, particularly her accent.
However, Ebert's review stood out for its appreciation of the film's mood and performances. He praised Roberts' ability to capture Mary's troubled soul, aided by Stephen Frears' direction and Christopher Hampton's adapted script. Ebert's review also noted the film's success in conveying the horror and sensuality of the story. Despite the initial negative reception, "Mary Reilly" has since gained a cult following, with some critics re-evaluating its worth, even including it on a list of '90s horror movies with awful reviews that are still worth watching.
This story serves as a reminder to critics and audiences alike to approach films with an open mind. Ebert's review highlights the importance of engaging with a film on its own terms, rather than being swayed by pre-release buzz or pack mentality. "Mary Reilly" is a testament to the power of individual perspectives and the potential for hidden gems within the realm of cinema.
