By Robin E. Simmons
Mary Shelly’s seminal novel is one of the most adapted books of all time, and this retelling faithfully goes back to the original source. Lushly transferring the stories twin themes of love and death into a darkly operatic gothic romance.
Unlike many versions of Shelly’s novel, Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation understands that Frankenstein’s misbegotten creation is as pitiable as he is monstrous and never loses sight of the human tragedy lying at the core of its horrific and timeless tale.
Filled with sweeping atmospheric visuals and powerful emotional performances from an award-winning ensemble of acting talent, this edition of Shelly’s literary masterpiece is a landmark interpretation of the enduring and iconic story.
At the turn of the 19th century visionary scientist Victor Frankenstein (five time Oscar winner Kenneth Branagh) embarks on an obsessive quest to conquer the mysteries of human mortality. But his hubristic bid to create life out of death goes hideously wrong and succeeds only in begetting a deformed monster (Robert De Niro).
Horrified at what he has wrought, the scientist attempts to destroy his creation, but fails. Rejected by his creator and shunned by the human world, the tormented creature swears vengeance against Frankenstein and his family.
As the monster begins to enact his murderous revenge, Victor must face a terrible reckoning with the tragic consequences of playing God.
Generous and engaging bonus material includes:
‘Frankenstein: A Liberal adaptation from Mrs. Shelley’s Famous Story for Edison Production (1910)’: The first screen adaptation in a 2K restoration by the Library of Congress, with music by Donald Sosin.
Dissecting Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, a brand new featurette with David Pirie, Jonathan Rigby and Stephen Volk on he differences between the novel and Kenneth Branagh’s screen adaptation.
Brand new interview with make-up designer Daniel Parker.
‘Mary Shelley and the Creation of a Monster,’ a new documentary featurette on the origins and evolution of the Frankenstein story.
New interviews with composer Patrick Doyle and costume designer James Acheson.
New 4K restoration from the original camera negative by Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Original trailers.
At its heart, this powerful and relevant film is about hubris and man’s inhumanity to man. This sumptuous iteration is one for the library. Sony. 4K/UltraHD.
What are you watching? I want to hear from you. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com
