- The purpose of this entry is to watch the film Frankenstein then identify and analyze cinematic choices of plot, casting, characterization, special effects, and theme development. Below you can view the official movie trailer of the 1931 version of Frankenstein, directed by James Whale.
Based on the attire of the dancing villagers and the continuous use of the word “heir,” one can assume that the film takes place in Germany or Austria. The plot centers around Henry Frankenstein (which is Victor from the book, I am baffled as to why the director chose to swap Victor and Henry C’s names), who, like his counterpart from the book, is also attempting to create life from death. Henry, along with his sidekick-assistant Fritz, are attempting to tinker with alchemy by holstering electricity from a storm to reanimate a dead human being. Dr. Frankenstein’s creation is a success in the sense that it comes to life, but due to a lack of early nurturing and guidance, the monster pillages the countryside leaving 3 dead. Upon hearing word of the death of Maria, a local village girl, the entire town bands together with torches and pitchforks in an effort to destroy the monster. Ultimately, they are successful and the “monster” is burned while trapped in Dr. Frankenstein’s isolated, eerie windmill/laboratory. The movie differs from the book greatly, but the main concepts/themes are still present: creation of life, playing god, meddling with the dead and its consequences, and the concept of nature vs. nurture. The film maintained an eerie mood throughout, due to the dark and gloomy atmosphere set forth by the director. The film was in black and white but would most likely maintain its gray-scale, gloomy mood even if it was in color. The special effects seem sub-elementary to a viewer from the 21st century, but were most likely cutting-edge during the time of the film’s inception. To my understanding, the director Carl Laemmle Jr. was the son of the creator of Universal Studios, and at the time was the owner. One can assume that based on the resources Laemmle had at hand (owner of the largest movie studio of all time!), there was no expense spared when making this film. Overall, I enjoyed this film. The details differed from the book greatly, causing the feeling of annoyance throughout the film, but this occurs whenever you watch a movie after having read the book. I enjoyed the dreary mood that the director maintained. I also thoroughly enjoyed how much more animated the creation of Dr. Frankenstein’s monster was in the movie opposed to the book. Few words were spent by Shelley on the process of the monster “coming alive.” The film however, turned the creation of the monster into a grand spectacle with dancing electricity, screaming sounds, and the Dr. Frankenstein shouting “IT’S ALIVE! IT’S ALIVE!” Having read the book prior to watching this film, I felt that I was too critical of every detail, but after viewing the film in its entirety while attempting to maintain an open mind, I can say that I enjoyed it.