Review of Gods and Monsters (1998) by Stephen L — 16 Jun 2010

Think of Frankenstein's monster, and you probably think of "scary" old movies. Think of director Bill Condon's 1998 film about James Whale, director of the first two Frankenstein films, and you might think of "that movie about an old gay guy in Hollywood.".

I recently rewatched "Gods and Monsters," and was surprised to learn how much intentional humor Whale inserted into his horror movies (which, in addition to the Frankenstein pictures, included "The Old Dark House" and "The Invisible Man"). I also believe Ian McKellen's superb portrayal of Whale is less about homosexuality, more about aging and being an outsider -- no matter one's sexuality. Early on in the film, the elderly Whale suffers a minor stroke and experiences a series of flashbacks, including everything from his childhood poverty to enormous professional success. He tries to convince himself that at last he has his "freedom," but laments that "I've spent much of my life outrunning the past, and now it floods all over me.".

In his old age, Whale is alone, and just like his famous monster, is in dire need of "a friend." Actually, as played by McKellen, Whale wants a bit more than simple friendship: He is a dirty old man, lusting after young hunks like Brendan Fraser. He is a vain and proud man. He is also filled with self-loathing.

"Gods and Monsters" is an actor's movie, a "Sunset Boulevard" for a new generation. McKellen was deservedly Oscar-nominated, but his support is also first-rate. Fraser brings a surprising sense of curiosity to his blue-collar "hunk," and Lynn Redgrave conveys sensitivity beneath the surface of Whale's gruff housekeeper. Redgrave passed away last month, which is too bad. Fraser now stars in junk like "Journey to the Center of the Earth," which is a real tragedy.