“It’s alive! It’s alive!” These iconic words have long been associated with the story of Frankenstein. But really, they appeared nowhere in Mary Shelley’s original novel. Ever since the 1931 movie, most people’s idea of the character is a monstrous, crude man with bolts sticking out the side of his head. As a fan of the original book, I have always wanted to see an accurate movie adaptation, and I finally got that chance when Netflix released Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein” on Nov. 7. And I believe, while not perfect, it is a great way to experience the original heart of the story.
One of the most refreshing things about the movie was Frankenstein’s monster himself, both in his design and character. Rather than just being green with a few stitches, as he is in many interpretations, his skin color is checkered and pale. He looks uncanny yet remarkably human, and I had no problem sympathizing with his situation.
The movie also takes care to craft beautiful lighting and setpieces. Sunlight is stylistically bright and beautiful, while winters are crafted to convey isolation. The machines Victor Frankenstein uses to bring his creation to life looks almost steampunk, something futuristic and advanced that still looks possible during the 1700s.
My biggest problem with the movie was its use of narration, although I admit that might have been included for the best. Even in the original book, we hear the story as Victor tells it to a ship captain that he meets in the arctic. However, I think the movie suffered from a little bit too much, as there was narration throughout the entire thing. When it told its story through visuals and dialogue it did a good job, I really just wish there was more of that.
The movie, being about a man who builds another man out of dead bodies, could be graphic at times. It served Victor’s character that he never showed revulsion during his work, and it matched the darker tone of the story, but I would advise squeamish viewers to look away.
While I may have done a few things differently if I was the director, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing del Toro’s vision, and I recommend the movie to anyone with even the slightest interest in Frankenstein and his monster.
