Victor Frankenstein – A New Twist on the Classic Tale
This film is told from Igor’s perspective. We see the troubled young assistant’s dark origins, his redemptive friendship with the young medical student Viktor Von Frankenstein, and become eyewitnesses to the emergence of how Frankenstein became the man – and the legend – we know today. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Lainey A. commented, “This phenomenal live action feature film, directed by Paul McGuigan, is jaw-dropping! I love this movie because it is an entertaining, action-packed bromance!” See her full review below.
Victor Frankenstein
By Lainey A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
This phenomenal live action feature film, directed by Paul McGuigan, is jaw-dropping! I love this movie because it is an entertaining, action-packed bromance!
I know you’ve all probably heard of the typical Frankenstein story where a mad scientist creates a monster. Instead of focusing only on Frankenstein and his ghastly creation, this rendition tells the story from the vantage of Doctor Frankenstein’s sidekick, Igor Strausman (Daniel Radcliffe).
Set in London in the early 1900’s, a hunchbacked clown is destined to live his life nameless and mistreated as a circus freak of nature. The clown is hopelessly in love with Lorelei, the beautiful and kindhearted trapeze artist played by Jessica Brown Findlay. After her horrific fall, the clown uses his extraordinary knowledge of the human body to save Loralie’s life. Victor Frankenstein, a gifted surgeon (James McAvoy), notices his medical expertise and rescues him from the abusive circus.
The clown is later given the name of Igor Strausman. Frankenstein helps correct Igor’s posture though a very painful and sinister process. Later, the two become extraordinary friends and partners, combining their scientific knowledge and medical expertise to create life out of something that is already dead.
A major subplot involves Roderick Turpin (Andrew Scott), a Scotland Yard investigator who religiously opposes Doctor Frankenstein’s work. He is willing to do anything in his power to stop Frankenstein from going against what he believes is God’s will.
My favorite scene is when Dr. Frankenstein and Igor are trying to fight off the monster they have miraculously created. This scene involves crazy special effects and will truly leave you hanging on the edge of your seat.
My favorite character, by far, is Igor. Daniel Radcliffe plays him as very loving and compassionate. He finds and loses himself in the complexities of his relationship with Victor. Lorelei helps to keep Igor grounded and is there to guide him.
I give Victor Frankenstein 5 out of 5 stars because it is not only unpredictable but also has impressive performances by the main characters. This science fiction drama is one of my favorite film versions regarding the story of Dr. Frankenstein. This is a really cool rendition and I recommend this movie for ages 11 to 18 because it is intense and is a little scary at times.
This movie leaves you on the edge of your seat rooting for Igor. Victor Frankenstein is in theaters now so go check it out!
