The highly anticipated trailer for Maggie Gyllenhaal‘s The Bride! has been released, presenting a unique retelling of the Frankenstein story that centers on the complex romance between Frankenstein and his Bride, a reanimated companion created for eternal life. Meanwhile, Guillermo del Toro‘s Frankenstein, arriving on Netflix this November, offers a markedly different experience, rooted firmly in Mary Shelley’s original 1818 novel. These two films, both inspired by the same source, demonstrate strikingly divergent approaches to the iconic tale.
Contrasting Approaches to Frankenstein’s Tale
Although at first glance it seemed natural to compare The Bride! with del Toro’s Frankenstein because of their shared literary origin and an initial connection to Netflix, the two projects quickly distinguish themselves through their distinct visions. Guillermo del Toro’s film is a meticulous, faithful adaptation that remains deeply grounded in Shelley’s Victorian narrative, emphasizing authentic storytelling and subtle emotional themes.
On the other hand, The Bride! takes a far more unpredictable and subversive direction, edging towards dark humor and contemporary sensibilities. Maggie Gyllenhaal, who directs and writes, appears intent on exploring underlying themes within the Frankenstein mythos rather than simply retelling the classic story. This is evident in the trailer’s modern tone and stylistic elements that evoke a pulpy, almost rebellious atmosphere reminiscent of crime dramas like Badlands or Bonnie and Clyde, highlighting a turbulent and violent relationship between Frankenstein’s monster and his Bride.
The portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster further underscores these divergent interpretations. Christian Bale’s monster in The Bride! is loud, aggressive, and fueled by rage and frustration, whereas Jacob Elordi’s take in del Toro’s adaptation presents a younger figure driven by curiosity and affection. These contrasting characterizations reinforce that The Bride! and Frankenstein are meant to complement rather than compete with one another. Given the inherently thematic nature of Shelley’s text—exploring the value of life and moral questions regarding power and control—viewers can expect each film to offer a unique perspective on these subjects.
The Bride! Brings a Fresh and Original Vision
Over the decades, Frankenstein has been adapted countless times, but The Bride! stands out as one of the most original versions in recent memory. While it maintains the dark, Gothic atmosphere familiar to fans of the story, it distinctly reinvents the narrative through unexpected choices in music, costume, and tone. The retro synth-pop soundtrack and vintage-inspired wardrobe create an aesthetic that feels daring and unconventional compared to typical Frankenstein retellings.
In contrast to del Toro’s grounded and reverent adaptation, Gyllenhaal’s film channels more of The Bride of Frankenstein’s spirit, yet with a bold reinvention that challenges traditional storytelling. This fresh approach poses a risk given the beloved status of Shelley’s work, but if The Bride! successfully investigates the novel’s themes through new lenses, it could carve out a justified and intriguing space in the Frankenstein cinematic tradition.
Early indications suggest that The Bride! will offer a distinctly modern commentary, potentially examining issues such as coercion and toxic masculinity through the lens of the monster’s relationship with his Bride. While Mary Shelley’s original novel and del Toro’s adaptation cast Victor Frankenstein as the controlling creator, The Bride! appears to invert this dynamic, focusing on the monster himself as the source of dominance and turmoil.
Victor Frankenstein’s hunger for power and control—key motivations behind his creation of life and subsequent conflict with his creation—provides fertile ground for thematic exploration in both films. Gyllenhaal seems poised to delve into how this legacy of control might manifest within the monster’s self-destructive relationship with his Bride, setting her story apart with a new perspective on the consequences of authority and agency.
Principal Cast of The Bride!
The Bride! features a compelling ensemble led by Christian Bale, who portrays Frankenstein’s monster with notable intensity. Jessie Buckley plays the Bride, bringing a fresh take to the classic character. The cast also includes Peter Sarsgaard and Annette Bening in prominent roles, contributing to the film’s strong and varied ensemble.
The Coming Clash of Classical and Contemporary Frankenstein Interpretations
The simultaneous release of Gyllenhaal’s The Bride! and del Toro’s Frankenstein offers audiences two complementary yet distinct cinematic experiences. Where del Toro’s film immerses viewers in a faithful, literary adaptation that honors the nuances of Shelley’s novel, The Bride! ventures into bold new storytelling territory with a restless, modern edge. This divergence reflects the breadth of Frankenstein’s cultural impact, illustrating how the story’s themes of creation, power, and identity continue to inspire vastly different artistic approaches.
The contrasting depictions of Frankenstein’s monster, thematic focus, and stylistic choices ensure these films will provoke thoughtful discussion and comparison among viewers and critics alike. As they explore the complex relationships between creator and creation from alternating viewpoints, both films enhance the ongoing cultural dialogue around Mary Shelley’s enduring masterpiece and its relevance in contemporary society.
