Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a 1994 science fiction horror film directed by Kenneth Branagh, based on the novel, Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley.
Plot[]
Dr. Victor Frankenstein tries to destroy the monster he creates but it escapes. Things go back to normal, but then, the creature returns and asks the doctor for one of two things: a bride or revenge.
Why It's Great[]
- Much like Bram Stoker's Dracula, which came out two years before, this film stays loyal to the novel its based on while adding its own twists and turns. Many consider it to be the most faithful film adaptation of Frankenstein.
- Like the book, it has themes of "nature vs. nurture" and of meddling with power.
- Striking performances, especially from Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro as Dr. Frankenstein and the Creature respectively.
- The new elements added to the story are welcome; for example, Frankenstein crudely resurrecting Elizabeth, who sets herself on fire and commits suicide, demonstrates the immorality of toying with science for one's own benefit.
- Gorgeous set design and scenery.
- The costumes really give a feel for the late 1700s setting.
- Excellent special effects, especially with the sequence where Frankenstein creates the Creature and later resurrects Elizabeth.
- Brilliant soundtrack by Patrick Doyle.
- It gives a nice mixture of horror, romance and drama.
- The Creature's appearance offers a memorable image without resorting to stereotypes.
- Emotional ending.
Bad Qualities[]
- Some abrupt tonal shifts and campy dialogue.
- Some scenes are choppy, and a lot of the film is so fast-moving, it can be confusing to follow.
- Despite its faithfulness to the novel, there are some heavy deviations just like Bram Stoker's Dracula.
- John Cleese in a completely serious role is quite jarring, though he too does a brilliant job with what he's given.
Reception[]
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein holds a 38% approval rating ("Rotten") on Rotten Tomatoes based on 45 reviews.
Box Office[]
In the U.S., the film grossed $22,006,296, with the opening weekend of $11,212,889 making up more than half of its total. Outside the U.S., it grossed $90 million, bringing the worldwide gross to $112 million.