The 2011 film “National Theatre Live: Frankenstein” is a mesmerizing and haunting adaption of Mary Shelley’s classic novel. Directed by Danny Boyle, the play explores themes of creation, obsession, and the monster within us all. The dynamic performances of Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller as Victor Frankenstein and his creation bring the story to life in a powerful way. The play immerses viewers in a world of darkness and despair, leaving them with a chilling reminder of what happens when man tries to play God.
Review
National Theatre Live: Frankenstein
Talk about a classic tale that has stood the test of time and Frankenstein is definitely one that comes to mind. Ever since Mary Shelley first published the novel in 1818, it has been adapted into numerous movies, plays, and even TV shows. Needless to say, it’s a story that resonates with many people and for good reason too.
So when National Theatre Live announced their version of Frankenstein, people were understandably excited. The production starred Benedict Cumberbatch as the monster and Jonny Lee Miller as Victor Frankenstein. The twist? The two lead actors alternated their roles each night so audiences could see both of their interpretations of the characters.
The production was filmed live in 2011 at the National Theatre in London and was later released in cinemas worldwide. It received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike, lauded for not only its performances but also its stunning cinematography.
The storyline of Frankenstein is well-known but for those who need a refresher, here’s a brief summary. Victor Frankenstein is a brilliant scientist who creates a sapient creature using body parts from corpses. However, he is horrified by what he has done and rejects the monster which then goes on to seek revenge against him.
As mentioned earlier, Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller alternated their roles as the Monster and Victor Frankenstein respectively. It was an interesting choice that added a layer of complexity to their performances – seeing how they approached each character differently was fascinating.
Cumberbatch’s portrayal of the monster was particularly noteworthy. He managed to convey both vulnerability and malice in his performance, highlighting how important good acting can be in bringing out multi-dimensional characters.
The production also had an incredible supporting cast with names like Naomie Harris (Miss Moneypenny from James Bond) playing Elizabeth Lavenza, Victor’s fiancée; Karl Johnson as blind hermit De Lacey, and George Harris playing science professor M. Krempe.
One of the most impressive things about Frankenstein was certainly its cinematography. The production made excellent use of the National Theatre’s stage, with its multiple levels and intricate set design. The use of lighting and sound also added an eerie atmosphere to the production, making it feel like audiences were watching a horror movie rather than a play.
The popularity of National Theatre Live: Frankenstein can be seen in the various awards it has won over the years. In 2012, it won the Olivier Award for Best Lighting Design and was also nominated for Best Set Design, Best Sound Design, Best Actor (Jonny Lee Miller), and Best Supporting Actor (Karl Johnson).
Even beyond its critical acclaim, Frankenstein has had a significant impact on pop culture. Its themes of ambition, morality, and responsibility continue to resonate with audiences to this day. It’s not uncommon to see references being made to Frankenstein in other forms of media like books and movies.
Of course, not everyone loved National Theatre Live: Frankenstein. Some critics felt that the production exaggerated certain aspects of Shelley’s novel while neglecting others that were just as important. Others felt that some scenes lacked tension or that certain actors were miscast.
Regardless of whether or not you loved it or hated it though, there’s no denying that National Theatre Live: Frankenstein was a bold take on a classic tale that brought something new to the table. From its stunning cinematography to its talented cast and thought-provoking themes – it’s an experience that everyone should check out at least once in their lives.
As Victor Frankenstein himself once said: “Nothing is so painful to human minds as a great and sudden change.” But sometimes those changes are exactly what we need to challenge our beliefs and opinions – even if they are about monsters created from corpses!
In conclusion, National Theatre Live: Frankenstein is a must-see for anyone who loves theater, horror or just good storytelling in general. Its cast, cinematography, and themes are all top-notch and it’s easy to see why it has remained so popular over the years. If you haven’t watched it already, do yourself a favor and check it out – you won’t regret it!
Technical Data
- Runtime : 130
- Release : 2011-03-17
- Genre : Drama, Horror, Science Fiction
- Cast : Benedict Cumberbatch as The Creature / Victor Frankenstein, Jonny Lee Miller as The Creature / Victor Frankenstein, Ella Smith as Gretel / Clarice, Naomie Harris as Elizabeth Lavenza, George Harris as M. Frankenstein
- Crew : Danny Boyle as Director, Mary Shelley as Original Story, Karl Hyde as Original Music Composer, Rick Smith as Original Music Composer, Nick Dear as Writer
- Popularity 6.4
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : National Theatre
- Summary : Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless Creature, increasingly desperate and vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal. Urgent concerns of scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing tale.
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