One of the genre's favourite cult directors, Roger Corman, returned to the genre to direct this adaptation of the Brian Aldiss novel. FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND is a film which successfully re-invents the myth of the Frankenstein legend, cleverly using futuristic science fiction as a plot twist on the old tale of dark horror, the result being plenty of originality and interest in the complicated but entertaining storyline. Packed with special effects - which may not always be authentic, but always look pretty, which is a plus point in my book - strong acting from a mainstream cast and a pace that never lets up, FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND is a B-movie made good and possibly the best of Corman's legendary career.
The film is best watched knowing nothing about it going in, which is why I'll keep the plot details sketchy. The basis of the plot is in the Frankenstein story by Mary Shelley, except here that the creature wants a bride and that Shelley and her companion Byron also exist in the real world and Shelley is actually influenced to write Frankenstein by the real-life events that she sees occurring - got that? Along with the interesting and unpredictable plot, Corman mixes in what he knows fans want to see - gore, with victims of the monster torn to shreds and losing arms and heads at every turn. The makeup for the monster (played very well by Nick Brimble from ROBIN HOOD: PRINCE OF THIEVES) is unconventional and slightly over-the-top, but at least it looks original compared to all the other creations. FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND also makes some very good use of lighting effects for the imaginative finale, which certainly makes you think.
The casting is unconventional but works. John Hurt at first seems an odd choice for the lead, Dr Buchanan, but he pulls off the part with ease and puts in a fine, detailed performance. In fact it's one of the best performances I've seen from this underrated actor. Raul Julia is all glaring-eyes-mad as Victor Frankenstein and chews the scenery memorably and with relish, whilst a young Bridget Fonda slips effortlessly into the role of Mary Shelley. Also appearing are Jason Patric and the late Michael Hutchence as Byron and Percy Shelley respectively. FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND flies by at a watchable and easy pace and happily mixes science fiction ideas, theoretical discussions. and B-movie bloodshed into a welcome and pleasing mix that proves to be a refreshing and overlooked addition to the overworked Frankenstein legend. Recommended.
The film is best watched knowing nothing about it going in, which is why I'll keep the plot details sketchy. The basis of the plot is in the Frankenstein story by Mary Shelley, except here that the creature wants a bride and that Shelley and her companion Byron also exist in the real world and Shelley is actually influenced to write Frankenstein by the real-life events that she sees occurring - got that? Along with the interesting and unpredictable plot, Corman mixes in what he knows fans want to see - gore, with victims of the monster torn to shreds and losing arms and heads at every turn. The makeup for the monster (played very well by Nick Brimble from ROBIN HOOD: PRINCE OF THIEVES) is unconventional and slightly over-the-top, but at least it looks original compared to all the other creations. FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND also makes some very good use of lighting effects for the imaginative finale, which certainly makes you think.
The casting is unconventional but works. John Hurt at first seems an odd choice for the lead, Dr Buchanan, but he pulls off the part with ease and puts in a fine, detailed performance. In fact it's one of the best performances I've seen from this underrated actor. Raul Julia is all glaring-eyes-mad as Victor Frankenstein and chews the scenery memorably and with relish, whilst a young Bridget Fonda slips effortlessly into the role of Mary Shelley. Also appearing are Jason Patric and the late Michael Hutchence as Byron and Percy Shelley respectively. FRANKENSTEIN UNBOUND flies by at a watchable and easy pace and happily mixes science fiction ideas, theoretical discussions. and B-movie bloodshed into a welcome and pleasing mix that proves to be a refreshing and overlooked addition to the overworked Frankenstein legend. Recommended.