The 10 Best Frankenstein Movies, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes
With the immersive world of film constantly evolving, the story of Frankenstein’s monster has seen many adaptations, each bringing a unique twist to Mary Shelley’s classic novel. Here, we delve into the 10 best Frankenstein movies, guided by their Rotten Tomatoes scores – from timeless horror to modern reinterpretation.
1.Bride of Frankenstein (1935) – Often hailed as superior to its predecessor, this sequel not only received critical acclaim but also boasts a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Director James Whale returned to craft a dark yet poignant tale that is revered in cinematic history.
2.Frankenstein (1931) – With an impressive 100% rating, this movie set the standard for all future Frankenstein films. Boris Karloff’s iconic portrayal of the misunderstood creature and James Whale’s visionary direction created an enduring masterpiece that remains influential to this day.
3.Young Frankenstein (1974) – Mel Brooks’ affectionate parody of the classic horror genre stands at a remarkable 94%. It’s a humorous homage that manages to be both respectful and hilariously inventive, solidifying itself as a comedy classic.
4.The Curse of Frankenstein (1957) – Hammer Film Productions is known for their gothic horror flicks, and this one doesn’t disappoint with an 87% rating. Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee deliver memorable performances that revitalize the story for a new generation.
5.The Bride (1985) – A lesser-known reimagining that explores the bride’s perspective earns a respectful 70% on Rotten Tomatoes. With Sting and Jennifer Beals in leading roles, it offers a fresh take on the Frankenstein mythos.
6.Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1994) – Directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh along with Robert De Niro as the creature, this adaptation stays true to its literary roots and has earned a score of 38%. Despite mixed reviews, it’s appreciated for its dedication to Shelley’s narrative.
7.Frankenweenie (2012) – Tim Burton brings his distinct style to this animated tale of a boy who brings his dog back to life. It warms critics’ hearts just enough for it to sniff out a 87% score.
8.I, Frankenstein (2014) – This action-oriented take on Frankenstein’s monster showcases Aaron Eckhart in the lead role but staggers with a lower 5% rating, often being criticized for straying too far from the original source material.
9.Victor Frankenstein (2015) – With James McAvoy and Daniel Radcliffe leading the cast, this film tries to provide a fresh perspective by focusing on the titular scientist before he creates the monster. It hobbles with an unfortunate 28%.
10.Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed (1969) – Another entry from Hammer Films featuring Peter Cushing questions the ethics of obsession and experimentation, landing itself with an audience-pleasing score of 80%.
This collection depicts not only the versatility of storytelling within filmmaking but also showcases how different interpretations can yield various levels of critical success as reflected by their Rotten
Tomatoes rankings
.