The First Female Monsters in Early Hollywood Horror Films

When discussing the first female monster to appear in a movie, one often points to the iconic Bride of Frankenstein(1935). However, if we delve further into the history of horror films, we can argue that other female characters in early films also claim this title.

Is the Robot in Metropolis (1927) the First Female Monster?

While many argue that Elsa Lanchester's performance as the Bride of Frankenstein in 1935 was the first, another contender emerges from the pioneering work of German filmmaker Fritz Lang. In his 1927 silent film Metropolis, the character of the robot duplicate of Maria could be considered the first female monster in cinema. This is especially noteworthy as the film Metropolis is often praised as a precursor to contemporary science fiction and horror.

Other Notable Mentions

Another early horror film that features a female monster is the 1913 Universal production The Werewolf. The film tells the story of a Navajo witch's daughter who transforms into a werewolf and wreaks havoc on settlers. While the film no longer exists, its premise and the character's transformation into a creature that destroys human life can be seen as a precedent for future female monsters.

Additionally, in 1899, Georges Melies released Cleopatra's Tomb, in which Cleopatra is resurrected from mummy form. Although the film's theme of resurrection and transformation might not fit the traditional notion of a monster, it still represents an early exploration of supernatural and transformative themes in cinema.

The 1903 film The Monster, which features the world's first surviving horror monster, might also be considered a contender. However, the monster in this film is less frightening and more comedic, reflecting the early days of horror in cinema.

Conclusion

While Elsa Lanchester's performance as the Bride of Frankenstein in 1935 is often cited as the first female monster, the debate continues. The 1927 film Metropolis features a character, the robot duplicate of Maria, that could also be considered the first female monster in cinema. These early films not only showcase the evolution of monster design and storytelling but also reflect the changing attitudes and interests of early audiences. The roles of women as monsters in cinema have a long and rich history, and continued analysis can shed light on the cultural and societal norms of the time.