Review of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1994) by Johnny T — 01 Apr 2012

There are things to enjoy in "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein," Kenneth Branagh's energetic adaptation of the 19th-century classic. But there are just as many things to dislike. Directing the picture and casting himself as Frankenstein-the quasi-mad, dashing genius at the center of it all-Branagh comes across as a rather bad Orson Welles. There are good parts dotted about. But they stand out in isolation. Without intending to, Cleese delivers some quintessentially Monty Python moments. Although there are intriguing intellectual moments when Frankenstein bickers with the known scientists of the day and talks about omniscient creativity, the central stories-Branagh's relationship with De Niro and Carter-are emotionally unengaging. As this movie switches, unevenly, from swashbuckling adventure to classic horror to frilly-shirted romance to campiness to graphic gorefest, there's no telling what you're watching. Clearly, one person's authentic homage is another person's overwrought teeth-gnashing fest, as Branagh's film never hesitates to slop on the melodramatic mustard.

VERDICT: "Not So Hot" - [Negative Reaction] These films are truly terrible films. They are not the worst things ever made, but they are definitely awful and should not be seen by anyone. (Films that are rated 1.5 or 2 stars).