About the film (courtesy of Focus Features):
A coming of RAGE love story from acclaimed writer Diablo Cody (Jennifer’s Body (2009)) about a misunderstood teenager and her high school crush, who happens to be a handsome corpse. After a set of playfully horrific circumstances bring him back to life, the two embark on a murderous journey to find love, happiness… and a few missing body parts along the way.
Just in time for the upcoming Valentine’s Day week, comes a twisted love story dipped in comedy and horror. Lisa Frankenstein arrives with a delightfully audacious premise: transplant the classic Frankenstein narrative into an 80s neon fever dream, with a dash of teen romance and a sprinkle of John Hughes thrown in for good measure. Does this genre-bending experiment spark joy, or leave audiences wanting more than just monster mash?
Kathryn Newton stars as Lisa, a rebellious misfit struggling with social exclusion and parental pressure. Her world collides with that of the literal dead boy next door, “The Creature” (Cole Sprouse), when a lightning strike brings him back to life…partially. Cue the body part scavenger hunt, awkward first (un)deaths, and a blossoming romance that’s equal parts sweet and strange.
Lisa Frankenstein revels in its 80s nostalgia, from the synth-heavy soundtrack to the vibrant, Lisa Frank-inspired set design. It’s a visual treat, bursting with playful banter that evokes both charm and humor. Cody’s signature sharp wit is on display (even without muttering a single intelligible word, for the most part), peppering the script with laugh-out-loud zingers and witty observations about teen angst and societal expectations.
However, Lisa Frankenstein stumbles when it attempts to balance its comedic and heartfelt elements. While the humor lands a majority of the time, it can overshadow the emotional core of the story. The romance between Lisa and “The Creature”, though unconventional, lacks the depth needed to fully resonate. Their connection feels underdeveloped, leaving their journey more whimsical than truly moving.
Furthermore, Lisa Frankenstein sometimes struggles with tonal inconsistencies. The lighthearted, comedic moments clash with the darker aspects of the narrative, like the ethical implications of reanimating the dead and the inherent creepiness of a teenage girl dating a reanimated corpse. While this tonal dissonance can be intentional, it occasionally creates an imbalance that disrupts the emotional flow.
Despite these shortcomings, Lisa Frankenstein deserves credit for its originality and its celebration of female agency. Lisa is a refreshingly complex protagonist, refusing to conform to societal norms and actively taking control of her own narrative. The film also boasts strong supporting performances, particularly from Liza Soberano as Trudy, Lisa’s stepsister and confidante.
Ultimately, this film is a fun, vibrant romp with a unique premise and undeniable charm. However, its comedic focus takes precedence over emotional depth, and the tonal inconsistencies might leave some viewers wanting more substance. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, offbeat horror-comedy with a healthy dose of 80s nostalgia, Lisa Frankenstein is worth a watch. Just don’t expect a profound exploration of love, loss, and the ethics of reanimation.
You can catch Lisa Frankenstein in theaters starting this Friday, February 9th.
