Frankenstein Summary
Director: James Whale
Genres: Science Fiction, Horror
Rating:
Still regarded as the definitive film version of Mary_Shelley's classic tale of tragedy and horror, Frankenstein made unknown character actor Boris_Karloff a star and created a new icon of terror. Along with the highly successful Dracula, released earlier the same year, it launched Universal Studio's golden age of 1930s horror movies. The film's greatness stems less from its script than from the stark but moody atmosphere created by director James_Whale; Herman_Rosse's memorable set designs, particularly the fantastic watchtower laboratory, featuring electrical equipment designed by Kenneth Strickfaden; the creature's trademark look from makeup artist Jack_Pierce, who required Karloff to don pounds of makeup and heavy asphalt shoes to create the monster's unique lurching gait; and Karloff's nuanced performance as the tormented and bewildered creature. Frankenstein was greeted with screams, moans, and fainting spells upon its initial release, obliging Universal to add a disclaimer in which Edward_Van_Sloan advises the faint of heart to leave the theater immediately. If they don't: "Well...we've warned you." Director James_Whale was memorably embodied by Ian McKellen in the Oscar-winning 1998 biopic Gods and Monsters. Hal Erickson, Rovi
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