Which Horror Movie Monsters Are the Protagonists of Their Stories?

Horror films often center around the fears and monstrosities of the unknown, but some of these monsters are surprisingly compelling protagonists. In this exploration, we will delve into several iconic horror movie monsters who not only embody the genre's essence but also serve as central characters in their narratives.

The Indomitable Frankenstein's Monster

One of the most famous monsters in cinematic history, Frankenstein's creature, played by Boris Karloff in The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), directed by James Whale, is a deeply tragic yet sympathetic protagonist. Created by the ambitious and misguided scientist Victor Frankenstein, the Monster (not to be confused with the doctor who gave life to him) exists in a world that fears and rejects him. Despite his monstrous appearance, he yearns for love and acceptance. This quest for connection is what drives the narrative and makes the Monster a relatable and compelling protagonist.

The Amphibian Man’s Odyssey

In My Struggle (an unreleased project, but often discussed in fan circles), Guillermo del Toro's creation, the Amphibian Man, takes center stage. This creature, a being of both water and land, serves as the protagonist in a story of captivity and freedom. Released from a government laboratory by the mute janitor Elisa, the Amphibian Man embarks on a journey towards love and liberty. His story is one of rebellion and perseverance against a world that seeks to keep him trapped.

Jeff Goldblum’s Terrifying Transformation

Transformers: The Breadman, directed by David Cronenberg, is a compelling example of a protagonist whose transformation into a monstrous creature becomes central to the narrative. Seth Brundle, played by Jeff Goldblum, is a scientist whose experimental teleportation goes awry, resulting in a gradual merging of his DNA with that of a housefly. As Brundle’s transformation progresses, he becomes a tragic figure, struggling to maintain a semblance of his former self while succumbing to his monstrous metamorphosis. His character is a quintessential horror protagonist, embodying the cruelty and absurdity of scientific inquiry.

Bloodier Than Before

Though not a monster, Matt Cordell from the Maniac Cop trilogy played by Robert Z?’Dar, is a compelling antagonist. Originally a police officer, Cordell is framed and beaten in prison by the criminals he had captured. His traumatic experience leaves him with not only physical but mental scars, rendering him a dangerous and unpredictable figure. His backstory and personality make him a darker protagonist, a bloodier version of the monster in a world where trust and justice are scarce.

The Hybrid Realms of Horror and Romance

The My Struggle project, another work by Guillermo del Toro, pushes the boundaries of horror and romance. Here, Elisa, a mute janitor, finds love with the Amphibian Man and fights to protect him from the world that would keep him caged. Their relationship serves as a poignant exploration of courage, love, and the fight for identity. This blend of genres highlights the human elements that drive the narrative, making the Amphibian Man and Elisa central to their own story.

Monsters and Humans: A Study in Protagonism

Throughout these stories, whether they are monsters or antagonists, these characters challenge the traditional boundaries of horror narratives. They embody fear, struggle, and ultimately, a search for meaning and connection. By seeing these monsters as protagonists, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of horror stories, where the line between good and evil, human and inhuman, is often blurred.