Culture
Frankenstein is a striking monster movie about science gone awry
By: Gordon Briggs
Posted on:
Upon reflection, I enjoyed this new Frankenstein film.
You already know the basics of the story: an ambitious scientist who wishes to create life spawns a powerful but misunderstood creature who wreaks havoc on the life of his creator.
While watching, I had my gripes.
Yes, it was long, verbose, and occasionally too literal. But my God, just look at the rich tapestry Del Toro weaved for us. Sticking close to the original material, but still adding nuances of its own, this film crafts a monster movie that zeroes in on themes of ambition, isolation, and, most importantly, forgiveness.
As far as pacing goes, yes, the movie takes its sweet time, but I appreciate how the mad scientist (Oscar Isaac) and his sponsor (Christoph Waltz) discuss Galvanism and debate how and why they want to bring the dead back to life. Like some twisted version of the film Oppenheimer, we see in detail Dr. Frankenstein gathering the scientific equipment, scouting locations, experimenting, and ultimately creating a new life.
Yes, it can be visually overbearing, but damn, the world feels three-dimensional and tactile. Specifically, the visuals are rich in contrasting colors, moving beyond traditional dark palettes to include turquoise greens, glowing oranges, deep violets, and ivory. I was particularly struck by the production design by Tamara Deverell, which, rather than using CG, sets like Frankenstein’s lab are filled with steampunk-inspired, handcrafted apparatus and scientific instruments.
Young and handsome Jacob Elardi may seem like an odd choice to play the monster, but he brings genuine empathy to his performance and the creature. Even when he is tearing man and beast apart, we always understand his anger.
Yes, Oscar Isaac can be a tad melodramatic as a mad scientist, but for me, the most interesting character in the movie is played by Mia Goth. The moments between her and Dr. Frankenstein have the spark of wit and intelligence. Plus, the moments with Goth and the monster have such danger and quiet eroticism to them that I wanted more of her in the film.
In the end, this version may not be definitive, but it is still an effective story that powerfully explores the isolating nature of being an outcast. Rating: ★ ★★ ½