“Frankenstein” is a horror film that has been view around the world . The movie tells the story of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a monster out of dead body parts and brings it to life. It explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. The film explores the theme of unethical scientific practices and their repercussions. Dr. Frankenstein’s obsession with playing God leads him to disregard ethical boundaries and engage in questionable experiments. This serves as a cautionary tale about tampering with nature and highlights the potential dangers of unchecked scientific ambition.
The iconic scene where the monster is brought to life in a dark laboratory with lightning flashing outside has become an enduring image in horror cinema. Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the monster is also unforgettable. With his hulking figure, flat head, and bolts in his neck, Karloff brings both sympathy and terror to the character. His performance captures the essence of Shelley’s creature: a misunderstood being longing for acceptance but ultimately rejected by society. Furthermore, “Frankenstein” raises profound questions about scientific ethics and human nature. Driven by his ambition, Dr. Frankenstein crosses ethical boundaries by creating life from death. The film shows about the dangers that come with tampering with nature.
For centuries, Frankenstein has captivated readers with its exploration of the boundaries of science and the consequences of playing God. However, when viewed through the lens of Critical Disability Studies, a new perspective emerges. Frankenstein’s monster can be seen as a representation of disability, both physical and cognitive. The monster’s “abnormal” body and brain are central to his characterization as a monster. His grotesque appearance is often associated with fear and revulsion, reflecting society’s tendency to stigmatize those who deviate from the norm. Furthermore, his cognitive abilities are initially limited, leading others to perceive him as unintelligent or dangerous.
In this context, it becomes clear that the monster’s monstrosity is not inherent but rather imposed upon him by society. He is rejected and isolated because he does not fit societal expectations of what is considered “normal.” This mirrors the experiences of individuals with disabilities who face discrimination due to their differences .By examining Frankenstein’s monster through the lens of Critical Disability Studies, we gain insight into how societal attitudes towards disability contribute to the creation of monsters. It challenges us to question our own biases and prejudices towards those who do not conform to traditional standards. It reminds us that true monstrosity lies in our inability to accept and embrace diversity in all its forms.
Fear is a universal emotion that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. Horror films provide a safe and controlled environment for people to confront and process their fears. By watching terrifying scenarios unfold on screen, viewers are able to experience a cathartic release of pent-up anxiety. Additionally, the horror genre often explores themes that resonate with societal concerns and anxieties. For example, during times of social unrest or political turmoil, horror films tend to reflect these fears through allegorical storytelling. This allows audiences to engage with real-world issues in a metaphorical context.
The horror genre has endured in popularity for nearly 100 years due to its ability to tap into our deepest fears and anxieties. From the early days of silent films like Nosferatu to modern classics like The Exorcist, horror movies have consistently captivated audiences with their ability to evoke intense emotions. Our culture’s preoccupation with horror can be attributed to several factors. This is why “Frankenstein” remains an influential horror film that has stood the test of time. Its visual style, memorable performances, and thought-provoking themes continue to captivate audiences nearly 90 years after its release.
I enjoyed your exploration of the relationship between Frankenstein and the framework of disability studies, which provided a fresh viewpoint. How does Frankenstein confront societal preconceptions and inspire acceptance throughout the film?
It was interesting when you describe societal expectations of normal and Frankenstein rejection to society.