research into frankrenstein

1. Directed by
James Whale
Frankenstein
(1931)

2. (The storyline) - An obsessed scientist named Henry Frankenstein is hard at wo
stitching together parts of various dead bodies in the hopes of creating a new lif
His hunchbacked assistant, Fritz does much of the dirty work. In one of the mo
iconic moments in film, lightning strikes and the creature and does indeed come
life. The ‘experiment’ immediately becomes a headache and a major problem for
townsfolk.
The 1931 Film

3. In terms of the mise-en-scene, the entire frame is full of scientific equipment that
reflects that of a laboratory/ an operating surgery. The table with the ‘creature’ on
looks like some form of torture method, along with the straight jacket and leather
buckles and restraints. The audience would feel as if this character is a threat or
dangerous, in addition they could feel quite claustrophobic and trapped for the
creature.
The heavy contrast between black and white reflects the hybrid genre of Frankenstein
- Gothic/Horror
The chains
create a
mechanical and
industrial environment.
Imagine the sounds of
contacting metal, the
clanging of clashing
objects.

4. Here we can see the evidence of the aftermath of a
struggle, however the plants are resting against the
chair which portrays that the struggle was heavily
weighted on one side.
The lady lying dead on the bed is dressed in
all white which could represent her purity
and innocence. Also, the way she has been
laid on the bed and all her dress is spread
out looks as if she is peaceful and
emphasises her beauty.
The haunting ‘creature’ with his hand on the
glass creates a spooky
And disturbing effect. His black clothing and
hair eventuate his ghostly
White features. His stance is reflective and
powerful which could represent
His authority over the lady on the bed but
also his sympathy possibly.