Product: Gods and Monsters (1998)
Rating: 5.0
A New Look At Frankenstein
The Oscar-winning "Gods And Monsters" is a highly compelling film released in 1998 starring Ian McKellen ("Lord of the Rings" trilogy), Brendan Fraser ("Looney Toones", 2003), and Lynn Redgrave. It explores the last days of real-life director James Whale, the director of several films, the most famous being "Bride of Frankenstein". Ironically, he was one of very few openly gay filmmakers in Hollywood at a time when the issue was never expressed. The moments before his death, many major events happen in his personal life. He befriends a handsome gardener who learns a lot about life through this. Meanwhile, he suffers flashbacks from his days in World War II and his days on the set of "Bride of Frankenstein". Through this journey the characters learn more about themselves than any other time.This story is told beautifully. The flashbacks and the 1957 (their present) time are separated wonderfully, allowing audiences to slowly learn more about the characters and why they live in such turmoil. This emotional story explores issues that give the communities a positive outlook: namely GLBT issues. Therefore, this is a story about more than a former film director. This is a story about passion, friendship, yearning, sickness, trauma, and life itself. Everything combined leads to a powerful conclusion that will keep audiences thinking. Such overall film substance, thanks to director and writer Bill Condon, gives great homage to the original Christopher Bram's novel version of "Father of Frankenstein".Ian McKellen and Lynn Redgrave received an Oscar nomination for their performances in this film (Best Actor/ Best Supporting Actress). McKellen's portrayal of James Whale was expressed emotionally painful throughout the film, never losing his stance. His dramatic expressions give this film a more powerful theme. Brendan Fraser gives a powerful performance in this drama as the gardener. Though he's better known to participate in comedies, he separates the two themes beautifully. His acting quality is surprisingly better here than his comedies. Though Redgrave's role as Whale's nanny is brief, she makes an unforgettable presence. Her character's witty remarks are sometimes humorous. Yet, they don't disrupt the overall dramatic theme. Though the remaining cast performed well, this trio of actors stand out.Such overall film quality makes "Gods And Monsters" an unforgettable film that will surely please its audiences for a long time. Those people probably will not watch "Bride of Frankenstein" the same as everybody else.