Revitalizing Hammer Horror: Joe Stephenson’s Modern Take On ‘Doctor Jekyll’

The director of Doctor Jekyll, Joe Stephenson, has taken on a new task: bringing the renowned Hammer Horror name back to life. Stephenson hopes to revive the genre while honoring its legendary past with a contemporary retelling of the original tale. Stephenson talked about the film’s creative process and his concept in an interview with ComicBook.

The way Stephenson approached Doctor Jekyll stems from his love of the first Hammer movies. He declared, “I love the Hammer Horror films,” expressing his admiration for their history. He intends to update the story to appeal to modern audiences while retaining the core of what made those films unique. His approach is centered on striking a balance between innovation and heritage.

Stephenson emphasized the significance of character depth as one of the main points. He clarified, “We’ve really focused on character,” pointing out that the movie explores the depths of Dr. Jekyll’s psychology. Stephenson intends to offer a novel interpretation of the well-known story by delving into the character’s dualism. The purpose of this complex portrayal is to evoke a deeper emotional response in the audience, amplifying the impact of the terror aspects.

Stephenson also mentioned how the endeavor was a team effort. “I’ve had an incredible team around me,” he said, giving respect to his group. He has been able to explore new ideas and push the frontiers of creativity thanks to the team’s efforts. The collaboration between the actors and staff has been crucial in realizing his vision.

Stephenson spoke to the experience as “a dream come true,” expressing his enthusiasm for the genre and his desire to help it develop. His meticulous attention to detail and dedication to maintaining the integrity of the original material are clear indications of his enthusiasm.

In Doctor Jekyll Stephenson seeks to arouse curiosity as well as terror. He intends to make a film that stays with audiences long after the credits have rolled by fusing psychological depth with terror. “It’s about making something that stays with you,” as he puts it.

 Joe Stephenson’s Doctor Jekyll is to be a significant entry in the Hammer Horror legacy. With a focus on character depth, innovative storytelling, and a creative team, the film promises to be both a tribute to the classics and a bold step forward for the genre.