Watch Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde

Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde is a 1995 romantic-comedy-horror film directed by David Price and starring Sean Young, Tim Daly, and Lysette Anthony. The film is loosely based on the classic Robert Louis Stevenson novel, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This modern adaptation puts a unique spin on the story by introducing a female version of Mr. Hyde, named Helen Hyde.

The story follows the character of Richard Jacks, an awkward scientist who develops a potion that can transform him into the suave and confident persona of his alter ego, Dr. Jekyll. However, while testing his potion, an unexpected mishap occurs and he discovers that his Jekyll persona has a feminine counterpart: Ms. Hyde, who is sexy, uninhibited and wreaks havoc wherever she goes. Richard initially struggles to control his transformations as he juggles his obligations at work and his budding romantic feelings for his coworker Sarah Carver, played by Lysette Anthony.

As Richard's experimentation with the potion continues and his relationship with Sarah deepens, he becomes increasingly concerned about Ms. Hyde, who threatens to ruin his life and the people around him. Meanwhile, Ms. Hyde becomes embroiled in her own romantic entanglement with Richard's boss, the lecherous, womanizing Dr. Lombardi, played by Stephen Tobolowsky. Together, Richard, Sarah, and Ms. Hyde navigate through a series of complications that arise from Richard's mad scientific experiment, including the sudden reappearance of his estranged and disapproving father.

The film plays with the idea of gender and identity, utilizing the duality of Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde to explore the socially constructed expectations and prejudices associated with gender expression. While the character of Dr. Jekyll embodies what is traditionally considered masculine, Ms. Hyde subverts gender stereotypes by embracing her sexuality and taking control of her life in a way that Richard never could.

The film also leverages a quirky sense of humor that is prevalent throughout, giving it a much lighter tone than its source material. This humor is exemplified in the scenes where Sean Young is able to showcase her comedic abilities, playing the role of the brash and boisterous Ms. Hyde with aplomb. Despite the horror elements of the story, the film never takes itself too seriously, instead opting for a playful and often cheeky approach to the material.

Furthermore, the film features an impressive ensemble cast that delivers strong performances, including Tim Daly as the bumbling yet endearing Richard Jacks. Lysette Anthony brings depth and charm to her role as Sarah Carver, the object of Richard's affections. Additionally, Stephen Tobolowsky delivers a scene-stealing performance as the lecherous and arrogant Dr. Lombardi.

Overall, Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde is an entertaining and unique take on the classic Jekyll and Hyde story. It combines horror, comedy, and romance to create a one-of-a-kind film that defies expectations. Despite not being a critical darling upon its release, the film has since gained a cult following due to its campy and irreverent tone. It's a fun watch that won't fail to leave audiences thoroughly entertained.