The Limehouse Golem Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A lady may or may not kill her husband, and Bill Nighy tries to solve that murder, but also a Golem is maybe involved, or maybe not, but definitely some red herrings are thrown in to confuse you for 109 minutes.

🍿 The Limehouse Golem: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Setting the Stage: Victorian London and a String of Murders

In 1880s Victorian London, a series of gruesome murders grip the Limehouse district. The unknown assailant, dubbed the ‘Limehouse Golem’, leaves cryptic messages written in the victims’ blood, adding an eerie and intellectual element to the terrifying crimes. The public is gripped by fear and demands justice as the body count rises, putting immense pressure on Scotland Yard.

Inspector Kildare’s Unwanted Case

Scotland Yard assigns Inspector John Kildare, portrayed by Bill Nighy, to the case. Kildare, already an outsider within the force due to societal prejudices of the time, finds himself handed the ‘Limehouse Golem’ murders, a case few believe can be solved. He is aided by Constable George Flood (Daniel Mays), a kind but inexperienced copper.

Lizzie Cree’s Trial and Potential Connection

Adding complexity to Kildare’s investigation is the trial of Lizzie Cree (Olivia Cooke), a young music hall performer accused of poisoning her husband, John Cree. As Kildare digs deeper, he discovers potential links between John Cree and the ‘Limehouse Golem’ murders, suggesting a connection that could clear Lizzie’s name or further implicate her in a web of deceit and murder.

The Suspects Emerge

Kildare’s investigation leads him to a colorful cast of characters, each a potential suspect. Among them are Karl Marx, struggling writer George Gissing, and charismatic music hall performer Dan Leno. Through a series of flashbacks and interrogations, Kildare attempts to unravel the truth and identify the ‘Limehouse Golem’.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• John Kildare (Bill Nighy): A Scotland Yard inspector, ostracized for his sexuality, investigates the Limehouse Golem murders while also trying to save Lizzie Cree from the gallows.
• Lizzie Cree (Olivia Cooke): A music hall performer on trial for poisoning her husband, with a dark past and a complex relationship with fame and survival.
• Dan Leno (Douglas Booth): A charismatic and flamboyant music hall performer who befriends and supports Lizzie, but hides a darker side.
• John Cree (Sam Reid): Lizzie’s husband, a struggling playwright whose death sets off a series of events, making him a potential suspect or a victim.
• George Flood (Daniel Mays): A conscientious constable who assists Inspector Kildare in the Limehouse Golem investigation, providing a grounding influence.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Dan Leno: “If you want your name etched in stone, you’re gonna have to take up the chisel yourself.” – Dan Leno explains how to be remembered.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $9 million
• Domestic Gross: $120,349
• Worldwide Gross: $2,327,419

💥 The Limehouse Golem Reviews

Personal Review

I found this movie to be a delightful surprise. The Victorian setting was incredibly immersive, and the plot had enough twists to keep me guessing. Olivia Cooke was fantastic, really embodying the complexities of her character. Bill Nighy also brings an unparalleled performance, and the chemistry with Daniel Mays is great. I jumped in my seat when the twists came to light, and it kept me glued to the screen. The ending felt a little rushed, but overall, it was a captivating ride.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Victorian mysteries”
  • “Viewers who appreciate complex plots”
  • “Those interested in strong female characters”
  • “Bill Nighy fans”
  • “Lovers of dark thrillers”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Gore”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Some sexual content”

Professional Reviews

• Screen Rant: “Jane Goldman adapts Peter Ackroyd’s novel which is a mystery with a false narrator that ends up being convoluted and uninspired with an uneven tone. I also found the misdirection never worked for me.
• Nerdly: “The Limehouse Golem is impeccably made visually, the costumes and sets are both evocative and handsome with a wonderfully dark and austere but also attractive Gothic vibe. However I found the murders a little too gruesome for me.

Audience Reactions

Keeps you guessing until the very end.: The atmospheric setting and compelling mystery keep viewers engaged.

The sets and costumes bring Victorian London to life.: Stunning visuals and attention to detail enhance the viewing experience.

Overall Consensus: The Limehouse Golem is a visually appealing and engaging Victorian mystery with strong performances, though some find the plot convoluted and the ending rushed.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The role portrayed by Bill Nighy was originally intended for Alan Rickman, but Rickman had to withdraw due to illness before his death. The film is dedicated to his memory.”
• “Filming took place at Dalton Mills in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England, which was transformed to represent Victorian streets, a theatre, and docklands.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Limehouse Golem?

As of October 2024, ‘The Limehouse Golem’ is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check your local listings for availability on streaming services. Physical copies are also available for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray via retailers like Amazon and major department stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Limehouse Golem, you might like these similar films:

• From Hell (2001): Both are set in Victorian London and involve a detective investigating a series of gruesome murders with a dark, mysterious atmosphere.
• Sherlock Holmes (2009): Features a detective solving crimes in Victorian London with a strong focus on mystery and intrigue.
• Ripper Street (2012-2016): A television series that explores crime and investigation in the aftermath of the Jack the Ripper murders in Victorian London.
• Knives Out (2019): A modern whodunit with a focus on a complex murder mystery, investigation, and a memorable ensemble cast.

🛒 The Limehouse Golem Related Products

• The Trial of Elizabeth Cree: A Novel: The book that inspired the movie! Delve into the intricate world of Victorian London and the mystery of the Limehouse Golem in Peter Ackroyd’s acclaimed novel. Experience the story in its original form, with rich historical detail and compelling characters.
• Victorian Detective Costume Set: Embrace the Victorian era with a detective costume set. Perfect for Halloween, cosplay, or themed parties, this set includes a long coat, waistcoat, and hat. Be ready to solve crimes with the authenticity of Inspector Kildare.
• Victorian London Ambiance CD: Immerse yourself in the sounds of Victorian London. This CD features ambient sounds of horse-drawn carriages, bustling marketplaces, and vintage music hall tunes, creating the perfect backdrop for reading, working, or relaxing.
• Limehouse Golem Inspired Scented Candle: Fill your home with the scent of Victorian London. Inspired by the movie, this candle blends notes of aged leather, woodsmoke, and a hint of mystery for a unique, immersive experience.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Limehouse Golem features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “What Did She Know About Railways?” – performed by Olivia Cooke

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mark Kermode reviews The Limehouse Golem

Want to know if ‘The Limehouse Golem’ is worth your time? Mark Kermode, a pretty well known critic, gives his brutally honest take. I always appreciate his reviews; he really gets into the details!

✨ Rate