Review of Gods and Monsters (1998) by Andy S — 06 Apr 2012

For someone in the newly fresh throws of a romance with the films of James Whale (and the early Universal Horror movies) this is simply a moving delight. Sir Ian McKellen gives a powerful and introspective performance as Whale in his final days.

Though this is not based on an actual account I think that the spirit of the film makers is foremost to honor and thank Whale for what he brought to the world. Looking at the effects that "the great war" had on Whale and his entire generation is something that paints the entire film.

This is something that influenced the birth of the Horror genre, even the "dark" comedy that Whale used in his films. Another GREAT part of this film is that it constantly pay homage to Whale's film through various shots / scenes.

The re-enactment of the birth of the Bride from Bride of Frankenstein is breathtaking for fans of the film. The actors were mind boggling duplicates for Elsa Lanchester, Ernest Thesiger and in a later scene Boris Karloff.

Brenden Frasier looking at his watery reflection in a sink is an obvious tip of the hat to the scene in Frankenstein where the monster sees his reflection. Scenes of the men smoking together and conversing is all tied back to Bride of Frankenstein.

Toward film's end when we see the scene of the blind man and the Monster talking (Friend.. GOOD) the entire film is put into perspective. It is such a touching moment that I simply wanted to burst with gratitude to both Bill Condon (Director of the film) and James Whale both.

The icing on the cake is the final scene as Brenden Frasier walks in the rain with that famous Karloff gait. Pure magic. FRIEND.. GOOD.