Frankenstein (2015) DVD Review
“Frankenstein” is a not so subtle modern retelling of the classic story.
I know what you’re thinking- another “Frankenstein”? How many times does this story need to be retold? Truthfully, it doesn’t need to be told anymore as the 1931 is about as perfect as cinema gets. Still, that doesn’t stop filmmakers from creating their own take on Mary Shelley’s classic novel.
In this 2015 version, Viktor Frankenstein and Marie are two scientists who artificially create a man (Adam) in a lab. Despite being a full grown man, Adam is essentially a baby (albeit a strong one) who is growing, mimicking behavior, and learning. Amidst this miracle of modern science, something goes wrong with Adam’s cells which cause him to become disfigured. The scientists opt to have him put down, but he somehow survives and manages to escape into the world. As he explores life, nature, and meets other human beings, the wandering Adam discovers the world is a very violent place.
Despite having some genuine talent behind this version of “Frankenstein” (Xavier Samuel, Carrie-Anne Moss, Tony Todd and Danny Huston all deliver solid performances), the movie is a frustratingly mixed bag. While there are several interesting concepts (including the decision to have the film told entirely through Adam’s POV), the movie is ultimately let down by writer/director Bernard Rose’s screenplay. The first half hour starts strong as we see Adam being birthed, but once he escapes into the real world, it becomes a repetitious bore. Had the middle act been more complex, the film would have benefited. As is, Rose merely spends that time overplaying the themes about violence.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 1.78:1. How does it look? A good transfer. No more, no less.
Audio Track: Dolby Digital 5.1. How does it sound? The 5.1 track has little to do here, but it does its job well regardless.
The only extras are trailers for other Alchemy titles.
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