The cast of Frankenstein has been a topic of controversy and curiosity since the novel was published in 1818. The characters in Mary Shelley's iconic story have been brought to life in numerous adaptations, and each portrayal of the characters has its own unique interpretation. While there have been many memorable and nuanced performances over the years, some renditions have been criticized for their casting choices. One of the most discussed aspects of the Frankenstein cast is the portrayal of the monster himself. In the novel, the monster is described as physically grotesque, and some critics argue that it is essential for actors playing the role to accurately represent this physicality. However, certain adaptations have cast actors who do not fully embody this description, leading to debates about the authenticity of the portrayal.
Cast: Peter Cushing (Baron Victor Frankenstein); Christopher Lee (Creature); Marjorie Hume (mother); Hazel Court (Elizabeth)
The film was very popular with the public, however, and today s directors such as Martin Scorsese and Tim Burton have paid tribute to it as an influence on their work. Dilys Powell of The Sunday Times wrote that such productions left her unable to defend the cinema against the charge that it debases, while the Tribune opined that the film was Depressing and degrading for anyone who loves the cinema.
However, certain adaptations have cast actors who do not fully embody this description, leading to debates about the authenticity of the portrayal. Another often-debated casting choice is the selection of the actor to play Victor Frankenstein. This character is crucial to the story, as his actions are responsible for creating the monster.
The curde of frankenstein cast
Baron Victor Frankenstein has discovered life's secret and unleashed a blood-curdling chain of events resulting from his creation: a cursed creature with a horrid face — and a tendency to kill.
- Terence Fisher Director
- Mary Shelley Novel
- Jimmy Sangster Screenplay
Top Billed Cast
- Peter Cushing Baron Viktor Frankenstein
- Hazel Court Elizabeth
- Robert Urquhart Paul Krempe
- Christopher Lee The Creature
- Melvyn Hayes Victor
- Valerie Gaunt Justine
- Paul Hardtmuth Prof. Bernstein
- Noel Hood Aunt
- Fred Johnson Grandpa
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Featured Review
A review by John Chard
Written by John Chard on October 16, 2019
Even if we dared to omit its landmark importance; it's still a terrific movie.
The Curse Of Frankenstein is out of Hammer Film Productions and based on the novel Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley. It's directed by Terence Fisher, written by Jimmy Sangster and stars Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee, Hazel Court & Robert Urquhart. Jack Asher is the cinematographer and James Bernard scores the music.
The first Hammer film in colour, The Curse Of Frankenstein began the second wave of cinematic horror some 25 odd years after the Universal heyday of the 30s. Where Hammer's version differs from the U. read the rest.
When it was first released, The Curse of Frankenstein outraged many reviewers. Dilys Powell of The Sunday Times wrote that such productions left her unable to "defend the cinema against the charge that it debases," while the Tribune opined that the film was "Depressing and degrading for anyone who loves the cinema". Reactions were mixed in the US. Film Bulletin wrote "rattling good horror show. the Frankenstein monster has been ghoulishly and somewhat gleefully resurrected by our English cousins". Harrison's Reports, "well produced but extremely gruesome. the photography is very fine, and so is the acting". Bosley Crowther in The New York Times said it was a dismissive "routine horror picture" and oddly enough opined that "everything that happens, has happened the same way in previous films." Variety Variety noted "Peter Cushing gets every inch of drama from the leading role, making almost believable the ambitious urge and diabolical accomplishment." The film was very popular with the public, however, and today's directors such as Martin Scorsese and Tim Burton have paid tribute to it as an influence on their work. The film holds an 85% "Fresh" approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Different adaptations have chosen actors of varying ages and appearances to portray Victor, which can significantly impact the portrayal of the character and the overall tone of the story. The casting of supporting characters in Frankenstein is also an important consideration. These characters, such as Elizabeth Lavenza and Henry Clerval, play significant roles in the narrative and have the potential to enhance or detract from the overall production. Audience members and critics alike have expressed their opinions on the casting decisions made for these roles, with some praising the performances and others feeling that the actors did not fully capture the essence of the characters. It is important to note that casting choices are subjective and depend on the vision of the director and the overall interpretation of the story. What one person may perceive as a miscast, another may see as a brilliant choice. The cast of Frankenstein is a crucial element in bringing the story to life, and each production offers a new perspective on the characters and their motivations. While there may be debates about specific casting decisions, the enduring popularity of Frankenstein is a testament to the power of the story and the impact of the performances..
Reviews for "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein: A Comparison to 'The Curse of Frankenstein"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the cast of "The Curse of Frankenstein". It felt like the actors were just going through the motions and lacked any real passion or connection to their characters. I found myself constantly distracted by their lackluster performances, which took away from the overall enjoyment of the film. I expected more from such a classic story and was let down by the casting choices.
2. John - 1 star - The casting in "The Curse of Frankenstein" was a complete disaster. It seemed like the director just picked whoever was available rather than choosing actors who would bring the characters to life. The performances were stiff and unconvincing, making it difficult to become invested in the story. It's a shame because the film had potential, but the weak cast ruined any chance of it being enjoyable.
3. Emily - 2 stars - I couldn't help but feel underwhelmed by the cast in "The Curse of Frankenstein". The actors lacked chemistry, and their performances felt forced and unnatural. It was hard to believe in the characters and their motivations when the actors seemed so detached. I was hoping for a more engaging and dynamic cast that would bring the story of Frankenstein to life, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case.
4. Alex - 1 star - I found the casting in "The Curse of Frankenstein" to be incredibly miscast. The actors seemed completely out of their depth and struggled to portray the complexity and depth of their characters. The lack of talent was evident in every scene, making it difficult to take the film seriously. It's a shame because I had high hopes for this adaptation, but the poor casting ruined any chance of it being a success.