Tom Tykwer, who previously directed the foreign sensation Run Lola Run, helms this English-language drama based on a best-selling novel by Patrick Suskind.
Ben Whishaw plays Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, an 18th century Frenchman who has the singular ability to distinguish the scents, smells and aromas that whirl through the air around him. He uses this talent to help him create the world's greatest perfumes. His obsession with discerning odors is brought even further to the forefront in light of the realization that Grenouille has no scent of his own. He becomes determined to separate the smell of young womanhood. Soon, this fixation becomes deadly.
Twelve young ladies are found murdered in Grenouille's neighborhood. People in the area go into a panic, desperately trying to protect and save their children. Grenouille does not relent, however, as he is lacking only one final piece in his puzzle.
Along with Whishaw, other stars of the film include the always wonderful Alan Rickman and Dustin Hoffman. Given the December release date, Paramount (taking over for the absorbed DreamWorks) will almost certainly be positioning this project as an awards contender. (Kim Hollis/BOP)
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