Frankenstein (1910)

Concise version: A short (thirteen minutes long) silent horror film of Frankenstein from 1910.

Medium length version: Once upon a time, in an attempt to satisfy my newfound Frankenstein obsession, I stumbled across this. Frankenstein (1910) does a decent job hitting the key themes of the popular Frankenstein story (ambition, creation, companionship) while also addressing psychological elements too. What I found most fascinating is how the short film was able to convey so much without any spoken word.

Longer version: Not too long ago, someone over here on Rec Leauge asked for silent narrative movie recs. I can’t find that request, but I think Frankenstein (1910) fits the bill. For years Frankenstein (1910) was considered a lost film, but in 2010 it was restored. Within the past ten years there have also been more restoration editions with new soundtracks. The film was also produced by Thomas Edison which I think is wild. The practical effects, camera cuts, and new music are amazing. I don’t want to spoil anything but considering this is over 100 years old, I think it’s genius. The unsettling end is my favorite part (but the Monster’s creation is up there too). If anyone is interested in Frankenstein, silent films, or classic horror, I’d recommend it. It’s a fairly quick watch too.