"JACK THE RIPPER" meets "SHERLOCK HOLMES" was probably the basic pitch that director Bob Clark gave to studios for his film, "MURDER BY DECREE."  Realistically, the premise of the greatest fictional detective solving one of the greatest true crimes, could make for a great film. Does it?  Yes!  Bob Clark went on to make such films as "PORKY's," but he's also shown a gift for atmosphere with his holiday classic, "A CHRISTMAS STORY." And, atmosphere is what "MURDER BY DECREE" breathes!  

In "MURDER BY DECREE," the stores of the Whitechapel District of London are being hurt due to the Ripper, and they take it upon themselves to get Sherlock Holmes to take the case and end the murders. 

While Sir Arthur Conan Doyle never wrote such a story, the film retains the feel of his stories, albeit one much darker in tone.  The detective and his assistant explore a dark world of freemasons and social misfits with much to hide. Christopher Plummer is quite good here, but it's James Mason as his assistant "Watson," who steals the film! Mason is perfectly cast, and absolutely terrific in every scene!   One can't help but be disappointed he never played Watson again.  Director Clark has also made some other terrific casting decisions here.  Donald Sutherland is appropriately uncomfortable as a psychic, and John Gielgud and Genevieve Bujold add even more stature to an already superb cast.

As mentioned above, atmosphere is key to the film's success, and there's plenty of it here.  Combining brilliant matte paintings with sets, "MURDER BY DECREE" feels like a much bigger film than AVCO EMBASSY could afford.  The dark, narrow streets of Whitechapel never feel "stage-like."  The well-crafted cinematography, tight direction, creative script, and excellent acting, help create a tension that can be cut with a knife. 

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT has provided a transfer that is nothing short of fantastic!  The film's correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio is intact, with 16:9 enhancement.  While there are many intentionally dark scenes, the clarity to them is flawless.  The contrast is flawless, and there's incredible definition in every scene.  Surprisingly, even with frequent fog scenes, there's no artifacting present anywhere!  Colors aren't often vibrant, but they're perfectly rendered.  Fleshtones appear natural.

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT has provided a Dolby Digital Monaural track.  While its fidelity is limited, the dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.  However, the wonderful score may have benefited from some 5.1 remastering. 

Director Bob Clark offers a running commentary.  There are long passages of silence, but Clark offers some great insight into the film's production as well as historically relevant details. 
 

Additionally, there are also many stills and posters, together with storyboards.

The film's theatrical trailer is also included.