Perfume: The Story of a Murderer

2006 • 147 minutes

About this movie

Director Tom Tykwer (Run Lola Run) has turned this best-selling novel into "a visceral thriller" that's "deeply, lushly, delightfully sinister." (Christy Lemire, Associated Press). With Dustin Hoffman and Alan Rickman headlining an all-star cast, Perfume tells the story of a French peasant blessed and cursed with a sense of smell so keen it is his primary experience of the world. But when first aroused by a young woman's scent, his desire to forever capture her essence quickly mutates into a dark and deadly erotic compulsion. The terror and tension mount with each beautiful victim in this spellbinding tale that culminates in a finale as unexpected as it is unforgettable.

Ratings and reviews

Not a bad adaptation, however, if you liked this (or you didn't), there is a mini-series by the same name set it modern times that I found to be much more interesting. I believe it was out of Belgium, so yes non-French speakers will be reading subtitles. Personally, I don't find that subtitles detract from the experience, but I recognize that this is a deal breaker for some, so this is fair warning. It may have been dubbed in English and other languages, but the typically horrible voice-acting is a deal breaker for me, so I wouldn't know. YMMV. It was available on Netflix not too long ago, and may still be there. Frankly, while this film plays to me as a somewhat campy fairytale, the mini-series plays out as a suspenseful mystery/ crime drama. Just looking to offer a choice as to how you would like the tale presented to you.

This movie is perf for that special someone who knows the ins and outs of the industry and is ready to sit and watch a film made up of A's. Beautifully everything, the flick incessantly engages the viewer with provoking thoughts, winding it's way through the life of an alarmingly charming and eerie character who you won't admit to, but actually find, that he'd be an interesting fellow to speak with. For real tho, top notch performances; you will not be disappointed!

Great thriller. Captivating Story, Cinematography and Acting. I loved it! Don't watch it if you got cold or flu, then you'll miss out on its true essence. 🤧☻