Lisa Frankenstein (2024) - Love Beyond the Grave: A Gothic Rom-Com Reanimated

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)

Released 02-09-2024

Watched 02-05-2024

Reviewed 02-06-2024

Watched in the theater Using Cinemark Movie Club

Early Preview with Cinemark "Secret Movie Series"

"Oh, it’s not that kind of cure. It’s a band. They can’t make you better. I mean, they can, but like emotionally."

In the world of horror romance comedies (That is a thing, right?), "Lisa Frankenstein" stands out as a refreshingly vibrant and quirky addition, marking an impressive feature-length directorial debut for Zelda Williams. Crafted with Diablo Cody's signature wit and starring the talented trio of Kathryn Newton, Cole Sprouse, and Liza Soberano, the film offers a unique twist on Mary Shelley's iconic "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus."

Set in 1989 and against a backdrop that blends teenage angst with gothic horror, "Lisa Frankenstein" introduces us to a misunderstood goth girl who finds herself in the unlikely role of a mad scientist. The plot thickens as a Victorian-era corpse gets reanimated, played with a charming blend of awkwardness and innocence by Cole Sprouse, and Lisa attempts to transform him into her ideal partner. The chemistry between Newton's gothic protagonist and Sprouse's reanimated beau is both endearing and comical, providing a solid foundation for the film's exploration of love and identity.

Liza Soberano shines in her role, adding depth to the ensemble with a performance that balances humor with emotional resonance. The film's visual style is interesting, combining the colorful 1989 and whimsical aesthetic reminiscent of Lisa Frank's artwork with the dark undertones of gothic horror, creating a visual spectacle that is both unique and captivating.

The screenplay by Diablo Cody is laden with clever dialogue and pop culture references that fans have come to expect, yet it never feels overwhelming or out of place. Instead, it complements the film's theme of finding beauty and connection in the most unexpected places.

However, "Lisa Frankenstein" is not without its flaws. The ending, while satisfying to an extent, lacks the punch that could have elevated the film to a classic status. Additionally, a few plot holes occasionally disrupt the narrative flow, leaving some questions unanswered and certain character motivations feeling underdeveloped.

Despite these shortcomings, "Lisa Frankenstein" is a solid 4-star movie that delivers a unique and enjoyable cinematic experience. It's a "coming of RAGE" love story that cleverly blends horror, comedy, and romance, offering a fresh take on the genre. As part of Cinemark's Secret Movie Series, we were fortunate to catch an early screening, and it's safe to say that the film is a delightful addition to the horror-comedy/romcom landscape, offering laughs, chills, and a heartwarming, albeit slightly macabre, love story.