The Bride.

Dizzying,Frenetic,Hot, Exhilarating Mesmerizing Romantic.

Not adjectives that readily come to mind when describing a film based on a 1935 Horror classic penned by Mary Shelly who in the black and white title secquence comes back from the afterlife to introduce this VERY updated version of a story she always wanted to tell until her death intervened.  

Set in 1936 Chicago the monster (Frank) arrives at the house of Dr Cornelia Euphonious having read about her work on reanimation, enlisting her help on creating a companion for him after a century of loneliness. They dig up a corpse and the doctor reanimates her unfortunately without her memory. Many other adventures ensue to try and jog her identity. Movie theaters to view Franks favorite screen idol. Dance clubs after which they were accosted by some thugs who Frank in a rage kills. This sets off their criminal lives. After refusing  to leave him  they run away, to New York City, the law close on their heels.  During an escape they crash a high end party during which Ida's shenanigans unwittingly attract the attention of a mob boss complicating their plight. Their crime spree becoming a publicized sensation, gathering lots of followers. The mob boss recognizing Ida (the bride) orders a hit. More chases and shootings ensue, reaching a Bonnie and Clyde final creciendo. But not to worry all is not lost.

Jessie Buckley as Ida deservedly owns this film with her electrifying performance. Christian Bale as Frank gives a convincing (for a monster) empathetic portrayal, as does  Annette Bening as the scientist. All the rest of the cast are top notch.  The scope and excellence of the production show that Maggie Gyllenhaal in her second feature that her directing chops are up there with the veterans.

 679 stars