First of all, let me say that almost none of the movies provide any insight into the book. They are pretty much monster movies that take the name and leave the rest untouched. Here I have assembled links to just a few of the multitude of Frankenstein-inspired movies with links to the imdb (Internet Movie Database). Second, let me say that – for the Real Reads members – watching a movie does not suffice as a replacement for reading the book.
Frankenstein (1994) Trailer Kenneth Branagh brings us the screen version most faithful to the book. Highly recommended. Robert De Niro stars as Frankenstein’s creature with Branagh featured as Frankenstein, Helena Bonham Carter as the beloved Elizabeth and Tom Hulce as best buddy Henry Clerval. Also included in the cast are Aidan Quinn, Ian Holm, John Cleese and many others.
Frankenstein (1931) Trailer This is the classic version starring Boris Karloff.
Bride of Frankenstein (1935) Trailer A follow-up (quite remarkable really, considering that Frankenstein and his creation both perish in the original book) where-in Frankenstein creates a mate for his creature. Some of the original cast reprise their roles, including Boris Karloff.
Son of Frankenstein (1939) Trailer Again reprising their original roles, Frankenstein’s creature and his mate have produced a son! Additional stars added to the cast include Basil Rathbone and Bela Lugosi.
Bud Abbott Lou Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) Trailer This bears about as much resemblence to the book as the 1931 classic does and is just as enjoyable.
Young Frankenstein (1974) Trailer My absolute favorite Frankenstein movie! Mel Brooks directs, starring Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, Cloris Leachman, Terri Garr, and Kenneth Mars. One of the greatest comedies of all time!
Frankenstein (2004) A television mini-series starring Alec Newman, Luke Goss, Julie Delpy, Nicole Lewis, Donald Sutherland, and William Hurt. Won a Primetime Emmy.
Frankenstein (1992) A made-for-television movie with Patrick Bergen, Randy Quaid, John Mills, and Fiona Gillies.
Frankenstein (1910) No trailer. No movie available, which is too bad because the ending is said to be quite remarkable. Starring Augustus Phillips, Charles Ogle, and Mary Fuller.
