Hyde Park Pick: Frankenstein

He’s clearly poured over every previous cinematic iteration, celebrating one version’s script, another versions lead, yet another versions tragic tone. It’s that detailed process of study and adoration that you can see throughout del Toro's version: the film is it’s own Frankenstein’s monster which pieces together the best of each retelling with del Toro’s grand vision and his true appreciation of what makes a film cinematic, the thread stitching together each part to craft something new.

The result is a spectacle, a beautifully crafted gothic masterpiece best enjoyed on the big screen. Every detail, from the performances to the set design and costumes, feels rich and luscious as if no expense, nor drop of energy and drama, was spared in the process of production.

As the nights draw in, Frankenstein presents a welcome opportunity for escape.

It’s perhaps not a world to get lost in, (too many corpses and destruction), but it’s a mood to revel in, high drama, big feelings, sweeping movements. And, amidst all of that scale what’s wonderful and truly special is that the heart of this beast of a film still beats hand in hand with Shelley’s original intent.

For all the fantastical elements to this story it is also asking a simple question of it’s audience, begging us to contemplate the nature of humanity and make sure we never lose sight of the true monsters.