James McAvoy & Daniel Radcliffe (r) star in Victor Frankenstein |
Bing, Bang, Boom!
Rotten Tomatoes Plot: James McAvoy and Daniel Radcliffe star in a dynamic and thrilling twist on a legendary tale. Radical scientist Victor Frankenstein (McAvoy) and his equally brilliant protégé Igor Strausman (Radcliffe) share a noble vision of aiding humanity through their groundbreaking research into immortality. But Victor's experiments go too far, and his obsession has horrifying consequences. Only Igor can bring his friend back from the brink of madness and save him from his monstrous creation. Directed by Paul McGuigan.
Here's one instance where audiences will remember Frankenstein the scientist (over the monster.) McAvoy's Victor is equal parts mad & playful; and his performance alone, carries the far superior first half of Victor Frankenstein. He won't make you forget Colin Clive per se ("It's alive!") but compared to clown/physician Igor... he's terrific. Unfortunately, McGuigan dials up the CGI and silliness to Van Helsing-like levels, turning a creative update of a Hollywood classic into something painfully familiar (not to mention boring & predictable.) Plenty of potential, but great movies have great endings; and this one doesn't, hence the final grade.
Grade: C+