Hyde's Appearance

One of the most intriguing things about this adaptation was the choice of Hyde's appearance. Continually throughout the episode the characters remark that Hyde is sexier, taller, and more appealing than the Dr. Jackman character. This is such a stark difference from the book where Hyde is shorter and less appealing than Jekyll. The adaptation highlights the attractiveness of evil whereas the original source highlights the danger of evil. Where Jackman seems downcast and depressed, Jekyll seems respectable, social, and upright. These two appearances can speak to the task of remaining good while wrestling with the evil side of humanity. Jackman is clearly more physically affected by Hyde than Jekyll, whose normal appearance does not change with the effects of Hyde. Hyde represents the base instincts and evil side of humanity. The representation of this evil showcases how humanity approaches that side. That evil can be sexually and physically attractive as well as repelling and causing unease.