For Classic Movie Fans

[Julien]

Originally Posted by cinderella

Has anyone read The Alienist by Caleb Carr? What a fabulous movie that would make, and I'm wondering why someone hasn't 'jumped' on that one!! It's the story of an 'alienist' (old term for psychiatrist/psychoanalyst), and how he forms a band of 'sleuths' to investigate, track down, and capture the first known serial killer in old circa 1880's New York City. It is a facsinating and riviting tale, and if well executed, I think would be a block-buster. I am tempted to write Scorsese - it's just his kind of story!! He has the finnese (see The Age of Innocence), and the violent grittiness (see Raging Bull) to pull it off magnificently!!!

I would love to hear your comments/impressions of this story if you've read the book, and if you were casting it, who you'd pick - I personally see Daniel Day Lewis, or perhaps Jerramy Irons as Lazslo Krietzler (the alienist). If you haven't read this, you should - you will never forget it. It is a grizly and gritty tale that is a sure page-turner - you won't be able to put it down!! Young boy prostitute's dismembered bodies are turning up all over the city, and the police don't have a clue as to how to start solving these crimes. Steps in Dr. Krietzler and his unorthodox methods of solving the crimes - first indication of forensic science and it's methodology.

The Alienist good book. Although I read it years ago, I still remember the storyline and great writing. I think it would be a good film. As for the leads, I'd have to reread it to get a sense of who could be in it. Thanks for reminding me of the book, I'll have to pick it up again.