Frankenstein Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Frankenstein" on Blu Ray is a robust 1080p image that substantially impresses from the very first frame. The transfer showcases extremely fine skin textures, especially noticeable in close-up shots, with detailed rendering around the eyes. As the camera widens its scope, the detailing of grotesque skin makeup, caked-on blood, and worn fabric textures remains sharp and clear. A particular scene where the monster and a dog dig a hole illustrates the terrain draped in intricate, individual grains of dirt. The color palette is equally striking, with bold blood reds and bright exterior greens standing out prominently. Black levels are solid, maintaining excellent skin tones whether they are neutral or intricately detailed like the monster's puss-ridden wounds.

The HD camera usage for the modernized retelling injects a sterilized digital crispness to the video, which comes with a controlled and subtly subdued palette that adds a somewhat grayish aesthetic. However, primary colors such as reds and blues are richly saturated and energetic, providing the 1.78:1 image with an engaging vibrance. The contrast balance is bright and well-calibrated, showcasing crisp whites and appreciable dimensionality. Although black levels could be marginally stronger in rare instances, brightness levels largely remain spot-on. The transfer exhibits minor banding in shadows that isn’t too distracting. Overall, fine lines and objects maintain razor-sharp clarity, while facial complexions are rendered with lifelike textures. Despite a few negligible flaws, this is an impressive and visually appealing presentation.

The Frankenstein Blu-ray audio presentation features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that expertly balances aggression and finesse. Heavy, stage-filling elements—including an MRI machine's deep whir, rumbling trains, and cracking thunder—are room-filling with precise placement across surrounds and a strong subwoofer presence. The music, a mix of score and Blues guitar licks, is well-defined across the range. Action effects, such as screams, gun blasts, and pounding flesh, are clearly delineated with substantial weight and volume. Dialogue remains clear, well prioritized, and centered, highlighted by impressive echoing sequences like those in a long hallway scene.

In addition, the Dolby TrueHD soundtrack provides engaging atmospherics that punctuate the audio experience with city noises and rustling leaves, although these immersive elements are sporadic. Panning is smooth and seamless, expanding the soundfield appreciably while maintaining focus on frontal action. This results in a welcoming, expansive soundstage with a consistent background activity and convincing off-screen effects. Vocals are always intelligible and prominently placed, ensuring clarity and distinction within the mid-range even during loud segments. The track is bolstered by a weighty low-end that adds depth to the film's action.

The Blu-ray release of "Frankenstein" includes a rather limited selection of extras that cater to enthusiasts of the classic horror genre. Although brief, the supplements provided include a high-definition trailer for the film along with previews for other horror titles such as "Howl" and "Charlie's Farm." While the set may lack comprehensive behind-the-scenes content or in-depth interviews, the presence of these high-quality trailers delivers a hint of nostalgia and anticipation for classic horror aficionados.

Extras included in this disc:

• Film Trailer: High-definition trailer for "Frankenstein."
• Previews for Howl and Charlie's Farm: Additional high-definition trailers for these horror titles.

Bernard Rose’s 2015 adaptation of "Frankenstein" offers a contemporary lens on Mary Shelley's timeless narrative, exploring themes of creation, identity, and societal rejection. Viktor Frankenstein (Danny Huston) and his wife Marie (Carrie-Anne Moss) engineer an individual named Adam (Xavier Samuel), who exhibits immense physical strength but possesses the cognitive abilities of a newborn. Adam’s strength juxtaposes sharply with his inability to navigate the complexities of human interaction, thrusting him into violent and emotionally intense experiences. The story, set against a modern metropolis backdrop, deviates from traditional horror elements, focusing instead on raw emotional and existential themes that resonate with contemporary audiences.

This adaptation proves riveting through its emphasis on the creature's painful journey of self-discovery and societal rejection. While it forgoes the grandiosity of classical renditions, it captivates with its portrayal of Adam’s internal struggles and his brutal confrontations with a world that reviles him. His interactions, from finding solace with a blind man (Tony Todd) to being torn apart by societal prejudices, underscore the thematic core of alienation that remains disturbingly pertinent. The film’s visceral depiction of violence coupled with nuanced performances, particularly by Samuel under heavy makeup, heightens its unsettling atmosphere and forces viewers into a profound empathetic engagement with Adam’s plight.

Though at times the symbolism feels overly direct, Rose’s narrative style and visual storytelling breathe fresh urgency into Shelley’s classic cautionary tale about scientific hubris and human empathy. The film is marked by moments of intense violence and raw emotion, challenging viewers while rewarding them with deep thematic explorations. This updated "Frankenstein" is a gripping piece that melds sociopolitical undertones with timeless questions of existence, making it an impactful experience worth engaging with despite its occasional shortcomings.

“Frankenstein” (2015) presents a modernized iteration of Mary Shelley's timeless narrative, successfully maintaining the original’s emotional weight and thematic depth. This film, set in the 21st Century, showcases strong performances, particularly from its lead actor, and exceptional makeup artistry that brings the iconic monster to life with unsettling authenticity. The film navigates the delicate balance of being both challenging and rewarding to watch, delivering a rich emotional experience that lingers.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray release by Alchemy does not disappoint in terms of video and audio quality. The picture is nearly reference-grade, providing clear and vibrant visuals, while the audio presentation is enjoyable and immersive, enhancing the overall viewing experience. However, it's worth noting that the release is barebones when it comes to supplemental content, offering only a trailer and lacking in-depth special features that many collectors value.

Overall, 'Frankenstein (2015)' stands as an engaging update on a classic horror tale. Despite its limitations in supplemental materials, the strong audiovisual presentation and compelling performances make this Blu-ray a recommended addition for fans of the genre and the original story alike.