Track the Ripper is an interactive mobile movie that allows the user to return to 1888 and take control of the investigation, gathering clues to build a profile of the Ripper. According to Neil Bailey, Managing Director of WildKnowledge, “A key aspect of the project was the ability to recreate the streets of Whitechapel as they looked in 1888. Partnering with digital specialists the Fink Agency and BEL Limited has delivered this and we are delighted with the results.”
The app dovetails with The Definitive Story DVD, a special edition re-edited from the channel FIVE mini Series, which uses the actual statements of witnesses, the evidence presented in court and the official police documents to tell the story of the Ripper. The DVD also uses 3D modelling to show what the streets were really like and why the gas-lit warren of streets made Jack impossible to catch. Producer Jeff Leahy said “There is an unquenchable fascination for the story of Jack the Ripper and this DVD recreates the world of Jack the Ripper as accurately as possible. People can choose whether to brush up on their ‘Ripperology’
The widespread availability of smart phones and emerging platforms means that this is just the start of the partnership. Andy Fink (Fink Agency) revealed “People want to engage with content in numerous ways, and the days of passively watching TV are over. A 360 degree approach allows us to adapt content into different formats and provide a range of experiences for the viewer, whether that is through 3D TV or their mobile phone. Expect to see some exciting new projects that will enable the public to wander the streets of London and interact with historical events such as The Great Fire of London and The Plague.”
The app (available for iPhone, Android to follow) and DVD are officially being launched on the 29th June and will appeal to the thousands of tourists who will be flocking to the area. The app has already received recognition by winning a gold medal in Hackney’s Race for Apps, a competition that seeks to promote apps that will engage tourists with the area. The question is will these visitors be able to stop the most notorious serial killer of all time before he kills his final victim, Mary Kelly? A launch event will be taking place from 6.30pm in East London’s Dirty Dick’s (private bar). Attendees will be able to take a Ripper tour to understand how the app can complement the experience, before complimentary drinks and meeting a mystery guest.
