Danny Boyle's 'Frankenstein' Review

Directed for the National Theater in London by Danny Boyle


Starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternating nightly as Victor Frankenstein and the Creature


March 17, 2011
The Paramount Theater Charlottesville, VA


Tweet Review: STUNNING! Told from the 'monster's perspective, one of the most arresting adaptations of the classic tale!

 Detail:  Where do you begin when you have a giant of British literature, Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', an Oscar winning director, Danny Boyle, and two of the most dynamic actors working today, Jonny Lee Miller ('Trainspotting'/'Dexter' and Benedict Cumberbatch (BBC's 'Sherlock')?

After viewing in wonder the new production at the National Theater of London on HD at The Paramount, I was gob smacked.  Never one for over-wrought drama, I realized that this is as good as drama gets.  I have never seen a dramatic play that grabbed my soul and held on for two hours.  I was actually mourning when it ended.

When my daughter, a huge 'Sherlock' fan and I saw it, Cumberbatch was playing the Creature and Miller was the Creator.  In a stroke of casting genius, they alternate the role.  Its attention to detail that makes takes this beyond great to amazing.  The depth of portrayal of both characters is a thrill.

The Frankenstein story is familiar; however, the story seems timely. Not only Man as God, but is the newborn born evil or a blank slate to be molded by environment.  There are genuine shocks, laughs and scenes that tug at the heart. The music by the electronic duo Underworld is perfect for the atmosphere, too.

If 'Frankenstein' comes out on DVD, I will post the information.  This is a must see!