The story is familiar to everyone. A young scientist and medical student named Victor Frankenstein (Kenneth Branagh) is conducting a series of bizarre experiments, convinced that, in the newly-discovered science of electricity, he has found the key to creating life. Robbing bits of corpses from here and there, Frankenstein forms his golem and then infuses it with the precious gift of life.

The monster (Robert DeNiro), of course, is horrible to behold, ghastly both in appearance and in deed. He escapes from Frankenstein's laboratory, fleeing into a world that is as frightening and strange as the monster himself. The Doctor suddenly takes ill and is nursed back to health by his fiancee (Helena Bonham Carter). He is devastated by his failure, but believes that his creation has died of cholera.

It is important to realize that Frankenstein's monster is no bete noir. He is a thinking, feeling creature; a haunted soul whose torment is magnified a thousand times by his awareness of his own monstrous nature. Feared and reviled, his overtures of goodness and peace are met with hostility and hatred. He thus learns that he is not welcome in the world of man, regardless of his intentions.

It would seem that there is no better director than Kenneth Branagh to handle this story. His flair for hyper-dramatic material and penchant for excess are just what is needed for "Frankenstein." Unfortunately, though, something is not right here. What should be the most exciting scenes in the film-the creation of the monster, for example-are instead flat and uninspired. The style of the film style is choppy and abrupt, the pacing uncertain, and the narrative muddled and uneven.

The fault must lie with Branagh. He has seemingly overextended himself, taking on too large a task, and his work suffers, especially his performance. He never seems to really get inside his character. It is particularly noticeable opposite the brilliant work of DeNiro. His monster is wonderfully wrought; his characterization, intricate and textured. Bonham Carter is also excellent, as is Ian Holm in a small role as the blind grandfather.

"Frankenstein" is not a terrible movie. The filmmakers, including producer Francis Coppola, are all too competent to allow that to happen. It is a big disappointment, though. I expected much better from such fine talent.


Faithful and frightening   October 12, 2004
 10 out of 11 found this review helpful

Frankenstein is one of my all time favorite novels. Everytime I see it in the bookstore, I feel compelled to buy it again. I currently own more than half a dozen copies. This film version is very faithful to the original story. That is what makes this version so good. The tale itself is masterfully told, being equally disturbing, terrifying, and heartbreaking. This adaptation is passionately told, and worthy of having the name of the great Mary Shelley in the title.


Many Of You Are Wrong   October 21, 2000
 9 out of 10 found this review helpful

3 days ago, I saw this DVD in my friends house and he told me that he hasn't seen it it yet. That day was the last day of watching "Hamlet" in our school. We are studying Hamlet and our teachers showed it to us. 2 Years ago We also watched Othello, and I was shocked by Kenneth Branag. Hamlet made me the Fan of him. With the excitement of watching another wonderful Kenneth Branagh film, I brought it home. Next day I was alone. I closed the curtains and turned up the volume, and started the film. I was shocked at the end. This film was more than I expected. After that I tooked my Frankenstein book, which I had never had started for 5 years, and started to read it. I discovered that it was far more different than the film. But WHO CARES?? We are not looking at the same version as the film. I look at the quality of work done and influence one me!(That I am still in the mood of film). Some reviews, even the top 500 reviewer, made some mistakes. 1) Kenneth Branagh is not English, He is Irish. 2) The influence of the film refering to the captain Quinn is that he is in the same situation as Frankenstein. Going on the way he believes or going on the way as he can be alive. 3) Those kind of stiches were the only kind at those times. You cannot think of an aesthetic stich on the Monster. 4) How can any horror film can be suitable for children. No one should care for it. Cast is terrific, the film is good, and the effects are well designed. I am sad because of people don't like this shocking film. The only way you can make a comment of the film is to watch it.