Arnold
CibbuanoGods and Monsters
November 12th 2006 10:35
Gods and Monsters (1999)
'Gods and Monsters' is a biopic (of sorts) of James Whale; the colourful director of 1930s horror classics 'Frankenstein' and 'The Bride of Frankenstein'. Taking it's lead from the latter days of his life, it explores his increasingly frailty of mind and a relationship he strikes up with his groundskeeper.
It would be silly to review this film without mentioning that James Whale (much like Ian McKellen, who plays him) was openly gay; a lifestyle that forced his early retirement in the 1940s. The film picks up on the strange and intriguing relationship that develops between him and his very heterosexual groundskeeper (Brendan Fraser, in one of his best roles to date), exploring the symbiotic nature of friendship and using it (as well as Whale's degenerative condition) to flash back to key moments in the director's life.
Ian McKellen was born to play James Whale; sharing the protagonist's sympathies and attitudes (to a certain degree) probably goes a long way to solidifying the integrity and sincerity of his Oscar-nominated performance. Also of note is Lynn Redgrave as his housemaid, and Fraser in a rare dramatic role (which he should probably do more of). The direction is wonderful; full of little touches and homage-a-plenty to 'Frankenstein'.
I really like this movie, the performances are completely enthralling, and the script is concise and compelling. The aforementioned homage-sequences send chills down my spine every time I see them. It's a little bizarre that a film like this manages to be so uplifting considering it has a touch of the tragic about it, and it’s a perfect example of biopic done in an interesting and original way.
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Comment by JohnDoe
Film & TV on DVD
Brendan Frasier surprises with his range, Ian McKellam is Whale.
Comment by Luke
Old Movies
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Comment by Georgie
I just saw Crash, which BF was barely in (damn ensemble casts) and he still sold me on his character from the first moment.
Shows you what having the right cast can do.
Comment by Luke
Old Movies
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