Hi all!
Today I am reviewing new-release, horror: The Bride! It hit cinemas this month, allowing me the opportunity of seeing it on the big screen. In 1930s Chicago, groundbreaking scientist, Dr. Euphronious, brings a murdered young woman back to life to be a companion for Frankenstein’s monster. What happens next is beyond what either of them could ever have imagined. Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Note: This post is in partnership with JustWatch.
WHAT WORKED:
The strongest aspect of the film was its acting. Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale gave outstanding performances. I was really impressed by their range and chemistry as scene partners. Additionally, the setting for The Bride was a feast for the eyes. I loved the downtown, gritty 1930’s Chicago aesthetic. There were some beautiful shots that took my breath away. As a director, Maggie Gyllenhaal had a very distinct vision for this adaptation. She made it quite theatrical. Think Joker: Folie à Deux meets Bonnie and Clyde. There were multiple dance numbers that tied in well with the frenetic energy of the movie. The entire feature felt alive (pardon the pun) and electrifying. I was definitely entertained.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK:
The Bride had a lot of potential to be a near-perfect film but it was ruined by one particular creative decision. Without spoiling too much, Jessie Buckley’s character becomes possessed (in the opening scene) by the spirit of Mary Shelley (the author of Frankenstein). Throughout the entire movie, she spouts random words in a Cockney accent, almost as though she has Tourette Syndrome. As a huge fan of the source material, I thought the concept to be not only insulting, but majorly jarring. I tried so hard to buy into it but couldn’t. It was simply too strange. I also found the dialgoue/script itself to be very odd. There was definitely a feminist angle to the story but the execution left me confused. It’s a shame. It had all the makings of something I would normally love, but I don’t think it worked.
OVERALL STAR RATING:
I gave it 3.5/5 stars. I’m going to be stewing on this one for a while.
Have you seen The Bride? What did you think of it?
Peace & Love xoxo