Perfume: The Story Of A Murderer Movie Review (2006)

If you think you have a good sense of smell, you have never met Jean-Baptiste Grenouille – a man on a mission to create the perfect scent in Perfume: The Story Of A Murderer.

I have always had a fascination with true crime, and more specifically, serial killers. I am taken with the psychology behind why they do what they do, how they take action, and the drive to continue regardless of consequences. So when I stumbled upon this unique film, I was immediately hooked.

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer is a film about fictional character, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, who is born with the most sensitive sense of smell in the world. Orphaned just after his birth and ultimately sold into slavery, people are aware that there was something uncomfortable about him. Meanwhile, he is on a quest to learn how to capture certain scents and keep them forever. Working for a perfumer to acquire certain skills, and having become obsessed with the scent of a specific woman, Jean-Baptiste sets off on a dark journey to create the most perfect perfume that could ever exist.

I have said before that I don’t watch traditional horror movies and I would argue that as much as this movie is about a serial killer, it is really his motivation that takes center stage. Much like Frankenstein’s monster, he doesn’t totally understand that the crimes he is committing are wrong because he has a much higher purpose – one that he believes he was born for.

I love this film. It has a unique and engrossing premise and the visuals are top-notch. Dark city streets, dirty fingernails, and shadows contrasted with young, beautiful women with alabaster skin, pastel dresses, and red hair. Haunting music and gorgeous cinematography continues throughout, and while you may be concerned for how graphic the deaths might look on screen, most of the actual killing is implied with few violent visuals.

I would have given this film a full 5 stars, but for two things. 1. There are a few moments at the end that make you furrow your brows and 2. Dustin Hoffman (as the perfumer) feels miscast and silly. That said, I will never tire of hearing Alan Rickman’s voice and you will definitely enjoy it in this movie. I was actually a little sad when the movie ended.

Perfume: The Story of a Murderer may not be a film that you’ve ever heard of, but if you have any interest in true crime, fantasy, or just want to watch a stellar film that is unlike anything else you’ve seen, give this one a try.

Runtime: 147 minutes

Motion Picture Rating: R

Languages Spoken In The Film: English

Should You Watch It? Yes, absolutely

Did I Cry? No, but I was thoroughly entranced

Rating: 4.75/5 Stars

Available: To rent on Prime Video or may be available for free on other streaming platforms