Why Aren't More Frankenstein Movies Made Like Zombie and Vampire Movies?

While the horror genre is rife with diverse and compelling stories, one particular iconic tale has somehow managed to remain a niche subject for filmmakers. Unlike vampires and zombies, which have evolved into myriad variations and storylines, the tale of Frankenstein has remained relatively stagnant. This article delves into why this might be the case and explores the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the story of Frankenstein.

Lack of Lore Around Frankenstein

The core of the Frankenstein story is fundamentally different from that of a vampire or zombie. For one, vampires and zombies have developed rich and immersive lore that has been adapted into numerous iterations, from different types of vampires (like Twilight’s Edward Cullen) to various causes of zombie outbreaks (such as the historical zombie films based on voodoo). Frankenstein, on the other hand, lacks this depth. Unlike vampires, who can turn their victims into more of their kind, and zombies, who are often depicted as reanimated beings that transform others, Frankenstein’s creature is not self-replicating. His character is static; when he is killed, he remains dead.

The monster in Frankenstein is a tragic figure, seeking validation and acceptance from his creator, Victor Frankenstein. If he fails to receive this, his response is not to turn others into similarly misguided creatures, but rather to seek revenge. This psychological complexity is a challenge to depict in a horror film, as the character's motivations and actions must be nuanced to appeal to a contemporary audience.

Frankenstein's Specific Character and Setup

Frankenstein, in its essence, revolves around a singular and specific character and setup. Each iteration of the vampire or zombie story incorporates new details, settings, and characters. For example, Dracula:

Was internalized as a personal tragedy in the movie 'Dracula: Prince of Darkness.' Evolved into a seductive figure in 'Interview with the Vampire.' Transformed into a political allegory in 'Underworld.'

In contrast, the story of Frankenstein is more straightforward. It is about a scientist who creates a life form and the tragic consequences that follow. This simplicity, while charming, can make it difficult to devise a fresh and engaging narrative that appeals to modern audiences. Filmmakers may struggle to innovate beyond the foundational elements of the story, which could explain why adaptations have not seen as much creative variety.

Challenges of Modern Adaptation

The uniqueness of the Frankenstein story presents both challenges and opportunities for filmmakers. While the tale is rich in psychological depth, it lacks the easy-to-follow structures and thematic diversity that have made vampires and zombies so versatile. Modern audiences are drawn to horror films that offer a blend of suspense, character development, and social commentary. Zombies and vampires often serve as metaphors for contemporary issues such as isolation, cultural fears, and societal breakdowns. Frankenstein, by contrast, is more a tale of personal tragedy and man's hubris, making it less immediately relatable to modern audiences.

Moreover, the creature in Frankenstein is not inherently evil nor does it aim to spread its kind, unlike many vampire and zombie characters. Its actions and motivations are often driven by fear, loneliness, and a desire for understanding. This makes it harder to create a villain with relatable qualities and compound storylines. For instance, it is easy to explore Dracula's transformation into a romantic figure, a metaphor for personal struggles and societal norms, but the same level of innovation is harder to achieve with the Frankenstein creature.

Opportunities for Creative Innovation

Despite these challenges, there are still immense opportunities for creative innovation in Frankenstein adaptations. Filmmakers could explore different contexts and subplots to give the story new life. For example:

Setting the story in a post-apocalyptic world that is haunted by the descendant of Victor Frankenstein. Introducing a new character who is a descendant of the creature, exploring the concept of genetic inheritance and identity. Exploring Victor Frankenstein's narrative through the perspective of a therapist or researcher, delving into the psychological and ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement.

By rethinking the setting, context, or even the perspective from which the story is told, filmmakers can create fresh and compelling narratives around one of literature's most enduring characters.

Conclusion

While it is true that zombie and vampire stories have seen a plethora of unique and engaging adaptations, the tale of Frankenstein remains a predominantly stagnant subject for filmmakers. However, this does not diminish its value or the potential for creative innovation. The story of Frankenstein is rich in psychological depth and offers a unique challenge for modern filmmakers. By exploring different settings, subplots, and new narrative perspectives, filmmakers can breathe new life into this classic tale and bring fresh, exciting, and innovative stories to audiences.