The Horror of Frankenstein (1970) is a Hammer film, and I have a nostalgic view of their films. I also like the story of how Victor Frankenstein creates life, much like how in Greek mythology Prometheus creates man and steals fire to give it to humanity. Prometheus is punished for his crime, his liver is consumed by an eagle. Eventually he is set free by Hercules. If Victor Frankenstein is a modern take on Prometheus then how is he punished and who is the Hercules that sets him free?
In this movie Victor Frankenstein is the true monster. No deed is considered wrong provided it fits his agenda. That agenda involves the creation of life and if something gets in the way of this it is eliminated. Frankenstein is basically a very intelligent serial killer. The murder count in this movie is quite impressive, however, the "monster" is outscored on this count. Victor Frankenstein murders people like he was swatting a fly.
The story starts with a young Victor Frankenstein, before he has even gone to university. His father does not approve and so Victor Frankenstein commits patricide. It is the theme that permeates the whole movie. Some of the victims are not obstacles, he just simply needs their body parts. One poor victim provides the brain, but unfortunately a shard of glass damages it and the "monster" is mentally deficient. He is also tremendously strong, a common theme in the various versions of Frankenstein.
Even though the monster is extremely dangerous and incredibly strong Frankenstein keeps him alive and attempts to conceal hiim. Frankenstein also uses the monster to get rid of people who might talk about his behaviour to the authorities. While Prometheus stole fire for man, Frankenstein pays grave robbers to steal the bodies he requires. Like Prometheus who is said to have created man so Frankenstein will create a man. But what will be the punishment?
The Horror of Frankenstein has a familiar plot, if you have read the book or watched one of the many film versions of the book you will know what to expect. That said there are some differences, in this version Frankenstein is truly the monster. He cares not one jot about who he kills. The acting is good, featuring some familiar faces in the Hammer house stable. But does Victor Frankenstein get his punishment? You will have to watch the movie to find out. I will, however, say the ending was out of leftfield, but it was a good ending.
6 out of 10