Written by: Lili Minato | Freelancer

Content warning: this article contains mentions of suicide

The iconic story of “Frankenstein” has been retold upwards of 114 times through the artistic media of film, the first recorded example being a movie by the same name made in 1910. Now, there are two new “Frankenstein” adaptations coming to the big screen in the upcoming year and a “Frankenstein”-inspired film that is up for an Academy Award. 

These three movies all follow the general themes and plot of “Frankenstein,” while also bringing their own original ideas to the table. From original stories to stylistic elements and cinematography, the classic story continues to spark new life in these adaptations. 

“Poor Things” is an artistic blockbuster that premiered in December of 2023. The story, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, follows a suicidal pregnant woman — played by Emma Stone — who is resurrected with her brain switched with the underdeveloped brain of her unborn child. She then goes on to explore the world through those new set of eyes. 

While not technically a publicized reproduction of the original story, it takes many elements from the stereotypical depictions of “Frankenstein” — a mad scientist and the resurrection of a new organic creature as well as the exploration and the understanding of society by said creature. The connections to the original Mary Shelley novel are abundant. 

The upcoming film, “Lisa Frankenstein,” takes a different approach to the generic recurring plot points of past “Frankenstein” adaptations. Described as a “coming of rage love story” by IMDb, the plot consists of a teenager in the 80s bringing a corpse — who happens to be her crush — back from the dead. They go on a joint mission to find missing body parts which results in murder, love and possibly happiness.

Even though this isn’t a completely original retelling of the novel, the film seems to be taking on something new with a campy and gothic style that will be loved by younger and older audiences alike. 

Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein,” is a remake of the 1931 classic by the same name. From what the public knows, this film doesn’t seem to stray as far from the original story compared to the other two films mentioned. 

However, audiences shouldn’t expect another repetitive “Frankenstein” movie — del Toro’s past films should inspire viewers to still expect an elevated level of beautiful, stylistic work. Combined with the acting skills of Oscar Issac, Mia Goth and Jacob Elordi, fans of del Toro and “Frankenstein” should anticipate creativity and beauty from this upcoming film.

Contact the author at lminato22@mail.wou.edu