Frankenstein - Movie review

 This blog is part of thinking activity.

- Assigned by Megha ma'am.

1) Movie review on :-Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, a 1994 science fiction horror film directed by Kenneth Branagh.

 Ans.      

Movie review  : Frankenstein

Introduction :-

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is a captivating and visually stunning adaptation of the classic novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley. Released in 1994, this film offers a fresh perspective on the timeless tale of science, ambition, and the consequences of playing god. Branagh's rendition is a faithful homage to the source material while adding his own unique flair to the narrative.

Characters :-

1) Kenneth Branagh as Victor Frankenstein

-Rory Jennings as young Victor Frankenstein

2) Helena Bonham Carter as Elizabeth Lavenza Frankenstein

-Hannah Taylor Gordon as young Elizabeth Lavenza.

3) Ian Holm as Baron Alphonse Frankenstein(Victor's Father)

4) Cherie Lunghi as Caroline Frankenstein (Victor's Mother )

5)Ryan Smith as William Frankenstein (Victor's younger brother)

6)Tom Hulce as Henry Clerval

7)Robert De Niro as The Creation

8)John Cleese as Professor Waldman

9)Aidan Quinn as Captain Robert Walton

10)Richard Briers as Grandfather (an elderly blind man)

11)Robert Hardy as Professor Krempe

12) Trevyn McDowell as Justine Moritz

∆ Some photos of movie :-

Plot Summary:

The film, like the novel it's based on, follows the story of Victor Frankenstein (played by Kenneth Branagh), a brilliant and ambitious scientist who becomes obsessed with conquering death. Driven by his desire to unlock the secrets of life itself, Victor embarks on a reckless experiment to create a living being from the lifeless remains of the deceased.However, his creation (played by Robert De Niro) turns out to be a grotesque and tormented creature, rejected by its own creator and society at large. What unfolds is a tale of tragedy, revenge, and the moral consequences of scientific hubris.

Performance and Direction:

Kenneth Branagh not only directed the film but also portrayed Victor Frankenstein with remarkable depth and intensity. His performance captures the character's passion, ambition, and descent into madness. Robert De Niro delivers a haunting and sympathetic portrayal of the Creature, bringing to life the creature's inner turmoil and longing for acceptance.

The supporting cast, including Helena Bonham Carter as Elizabeth and Tom Hulce as Henry Clerval, adds to the film's emotional weight. Branagh's direction shines in the film's grand and atmospheric visuals, emphasizing the contrast between the beauty of nature and the darkness of man's creation.

Visual and Cinematic Brilliance:

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein boasts stunning cinematography by Roger Pratt, with sweeping landscapes, eerie laboratories, and Gothic settings that immerse viewers in the 19th-century world. The practical effects used to bring the Creature to life are impressive, and the makeup and prosthetics work by Daniel Parker and Paul Gooch is remarkable in transforming De Niro into the iconic monster.

Themes and Philosophical Depth:

The film, like Shelley's novel, raises profound questions about the ethics of scientific experimentation, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the nature of humanity. It explores the isolation and suffering of the Creature, challenging viewers to empathize with a character often depicted as a mindless monster.

∆ Difference and similarity Between  movie and novel Frankenstein :-

🌸 Differences:

1) Setting and Time Period: The novel is set in the 18th century, while Branagh's film updates the setting to the 19th century. This change reflects the period in which the film was made.

2) Character Portrayals: The film presents Victor Frankenstein (played by Kenneth Branagh) as a more sympathetic and emotional character compared to his portrayal in the novel. In the book, Victor is often seen as more obsessed and detached.

3) Elizabeth's Fate: In the novel, Elizabeth (played by Helena Bonham Carter) is murdered by the Creature. In the film, her fate is somewhat altered for dramatic effect.

4) Creature's Appearance: While the novel provides only a vague description of the Creature, the film features a more detailed and visually dramatic representation of the Creature (played by Robert De Niro).

5) Narrative Perspective: The novel is primarily told from multiple narrative perspectives, whereas the film uses a more traditional linear storytelling approach.

🌺  Similarities:

1) The Core Story: Both the novel and the film revolve around Victor Frankenstein's obsession with creating life and the consequences of his actions, including the creation of the Creature.

2) Themes: Both the novel and the film explore themes of scientific ethics, the consequences of playing god, and the isolation and rejection experienced by the Creature.

3) The Creature's Tragic Nature: Both versions depict the Creature as a tragic figure who is rejected by society and seeks revenge against Victor for creating him.

4) Morality and Responsibility: Both the novel and the film raise questions about the moral responsibility of scientific discovery and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

5) Prometheus Motif: Both the novel and the film draw upon the Prometheus myth, with Victor Frankenstein taking on the role of the modern Prometheus who steals the power of creation.

 Conclusion:

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is a faithful and emotionally resonant adaptation of the literary classic. It combines stellar performances, breathtaking visuals, and a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the darker aspects of human ambition and the consequences of our actions. While it may not have achieved the same level of acclaim as some other adaptations, it remains a must-see for fans of both the original novel and the horror genre, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless tale of creation and its consequences.

Some clips of movie :-