|
Henry's fiancée, Elizabeth (Helen Chandler) is concerned
about Frankenstein's state of mind. She persuades his friend,
Victor (John Boles) and Dr Waldemen (Edward Van Sloan) to
take her to him. They arrive at his laboratory, based in an
ancient watchtower, at the very time a storm erupts.
The lightning strikes and… Frankenstein's Monster is born!
Frankenstein was filmed over 70 years ago from a tale of
terror first published in 1818 written by Mary Shelley. Mary,
her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron spent part
of a wet summer in Switzerland reading and writing ghost stories.
In it's first incarnation the monster is constructed from
bones recovered from a charnel house, posesses supernatural
strength and is revolting in appearance. It is devoid of any
redeeming quality and goes on to murder its creator's brother
and bride.
In this film the monster has a child-like simplicity brilliantly
played by Boris Karloff.
James Whale, the director, adds electricity, modern appliances
and makeup that has defined the monster ever since.
Although, in common with many of the films of the 1930's
the acting is stagey, Colin Clive as Frankenstein is very
convincing as the obsessed scientist.
In later life, after a successful film career, Boris Karloff
was financially secure. Often when signing a large cheque
he would say, "Thank God for the Monster!"
Conclusion: 80% Extras: 70%.
Continued: DVD
details at a glance >
|
