Director: James Whale
People who say that Hollywood has become addicted to sequels of late clearly doesn't know their film history. Hollywood has always gone after the money if they see an opportunity to do so. And much like today's industry, the sequels are occasionally equal to or better than the original film. Considering the strength of the first film, this is saying something.
The Monster has always been a sympathetic character in all the tellings; the Mary Shelley's novel is even narrated by the Monster for sections (the scenario where the original story was written is alluded to at the film's start). Even when he kills people, we still understand his motivations, and care about him. Throughout The Bride we see the Monster naturally wanting a mate. This is nicely doubled with Henry Frankenstein's relationship with fiance Elizabeth. The most monstrous character of the film is Dr Pretorius, who wishes to continue Frankenstein's work.
The most iconic image of this film comes right at the end, that of the newly created Bride. She stands there in all her glory, both beautiful and terrible. It is a striking moment, though knowing Young Frankenstein as well as I do, I couldn't help but smile, remembering Madeleine Kahn's tribute to this scene. The film's ending is just as melancholic as you would want from a Frankenstein film.
Such a wonderful movie, arguably better than the original Frankenstein, and as you say, that's really saying something. So much comes from the sympathetic performance by Karloff, which is also true of the first film.
ReplyDeleteThere's some goofiness in the start of this, but that's okay. Once we get to the meat of it, it's a wonderful and dark tale of desire and rejection, and it's handled beautifully.
And yes, Young Frankenstein spoofs it perfectly, mainly because it doesn't make fun of the source but because it embraces it and genuinely loves it.
Having James Whale direct both films certainly paid off. There is a continuity to the two which many sequels don't have.
DeleteI actually preferred the first Frankenstein movie simply due to the goth extravaganza. However Bride of Frankenstein is arguably a deeper and more sophisticated movie without loosing the elements that made the first one so fantastic. Only disappointment is that we get way too little of Elsa Lancaster.
ReplyDeleteTrue, she is only really in two scenes; but she does make an impact! I can understand liking the first more; I like them both equally, but I was more impressed that The Bride was so good. It had more riding on it.
DeleteThis is most certainly one of the greatest sequels of all-time. Like many, I prefer it to the first. Like you stated, considering how good the first one is, that's saying a lot.
ReplyDeleteIt really is! Just shows you what happens when Hollywood throws talent, not (just) money, at a sequel.
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