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Since its 1818 publication,Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheushas been likened to the Monster described in the book, cobbled together from different parts and ideas. It’s been a favorite for adaptation for generations.
On-screen and stage adaptations span from silent films to high-budget theatrical productions, and even include references inSpongeBob SquarePants.This year, we’ve been treated to a one-of-a-kind, tragic reimagining from Guillermo del Toro as well. What remains in these adaptations, aside from the imagery impossible to dissociate fromFrankenstein, are the themes of nature, hubris, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
The nine adaptations below represent some of the best and worst of Frankenstein from stage and screen.As you’ll note, most of these adaptations have been made by men and lack diversity. There’s plenty of room for more, and hopefully we’ll continue to see it.
Let’s Begin With The Best
Universal Pictures Frankenstein Films 1931-1948
Universal Pictures’ Frankenstein remains the most widely viewed and influential adaptation of Frankenstein. The iconic Monster imagery used in the film, as well as its quotable scripts, became Frankenstein canon. The story of Dr. Frankenstein and his Monster became instantly recognizable because of the Universal Pictures films. Actor Boris Karloff conveyed vulnerability with his expressive eyes and subtle expressions, setting the standard for an empathetic Frankenstein’s Monster.
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Young Frankenstein (1974) Directed by Mel Brooks
The 1974 film directed by Mel Brooks is a comedy classic.Young Frankensteinmanages to be both hilarious and fairly accurate to the themes of Shelley’sFrankenstein. Gene Wilder portrays Fredrick Frankenstein (pronouncedFron-ken-steen), grandson of the famed Victor Frankenstein. After inheriting a castle in Transylvania, Frankenstein sets out to resume his grandfather’s experiments. Frankenstein’s assistant Igor (Eye-gore) mistakenly grabs the wrong brain for their experiments, resulting in a semi-sentient Monster, a village mob, and a snazzy dance number. The black and white film parodies tropes from classic horror films, including the 1931Frankenstein.Young Frankenstein has also been adapted as a stage musical.
Frankenstein by Nick Dear, Directed by Danny Boyle
Told from the Creature’s perspective, this stage adaptation is uniquely powerful. The Creature’s journey, from new being to fully aware mortal, is presented as a natural, physical, and emotional arc. Victor is both a father figure and a mirror image of the Creature.The roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature were alternated by actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Johnny Lee Miller in the original 2011 Royal National Theatre production.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) Directed by Jim Sharman
Is it really autumn withoutThe Rocky Horror Picture Show? Based on the stage musicalThe Rocky Horror Show, the film tells the story of a traditional young couple, Brad and Janet, who get lost and stumble their way into the castle of mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The castle is Dr. Frank’s playground as he works on his greatest creation, and his staff of unusual characters run wild.Satirizing sci-fi and b-horror films, this iconic film is queer, sexy, and endearingly silly.
Frankenstein: The Musical Book and Lyrics by Wang Yongbeom, Music by Lee Seongjoon
Running off and on since 2014,Frankenstein: The Musicalhas become one of South Korea’s highest-grossing musicals. Dr. Frankenstein, in this version, is a government-funded scientist tasked with creating soldiers for the Napoleonic wars. When his research partner, Henri Dupre, is falsely accused of murder and executed, Frankenstein uses his head to make the Creature. Balancing themes of love, ambition, and revenge, this musical has been translated for audiences worldwide.Frankenstein: The Musical Live was released in Korean cinemas in September 2025. Musical fans, including myself, are hoping it will be released globally soon.
Now On To The Worst
I, Frankenstein (2014) Directed by Stuart Beattie
With a 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, I, Frankenstein is certainly something. Two centuries after being animated, Dr. Frankenstein’s creature, “Adam,” wanders the Earth caught in a battle between gargoyles and demons.
Frankenweenie (2012)Directed by Tim Burton
Adapted from Burton’s 1984 short, Frankenweenie tells the story of a boy, Victor Frankenstein, who reanimates his dog, Sparky, after a car accident. The stop-motion animation in this film is excellent, but the underdeveloped plot and lackluster characters feel weak in comparison to the short.
Victor Frankenstein (2015) Directed by Paul McGuigan
If this story of Frankenstein were a dull buddy comedy, this grimy 2015 film starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy would be it.
Frankenstein Meets the Space Monster (1965) Directed by Robert Gaffney
There is no Frankenstein here, only Frank. Colonial Frank Saunders, a robot created by Dr. Steele, is making his first trip out to space when his capsule is shot down in Puerto Rico by Martians. The Martians are en route to Earth, seeking to capture all the women in order to sustain the Martian race. Frank’s systems are damaged in the crash, and he begins to attack. Dr. Steel and Frank must team up to battle the Martians and save humanity, as well as themselves.
Can’t get enough Frankenstein? Get some more literary adaptations on your shelf with these Frankenstein retellings.
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