Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Different Film Techniques Essay

Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Different Film Techniques Compare and contrast the way in which the directors of Mary Shelleys Frankenstein (1994) and Frankenstein (1931) use different film techniques to build up atmosphere in their opening sequences: The two films I will be addressing in this essay are Kenneth Branaghs and James Whales versions of Frankenstein, a horror novel written by Mary Shelley in 1816, when the author was 19. The incentive for it was provided by the famous poet, Byron, who was a friend of Mary Shelley and suggested they write horror stories as a pastime. His was never published. Many adaptations have been made for cinema in the 20th century, those addressed in†¦show more content†¦The sound and props in the opening sequence are both extremely effective in conveying to the audience the mood and genre of the film. Set in a graveyard, with a funeral taking place, the setting is instantly portrayed as sombre and decayed, with sounds and props that evolve the uneasiness that is the emotional response of audiences at such a desolate setting into a feeling that is not only sombre but hints at there being aspects of the supernatural. This leads to the introduction of one of the themes present in Frankenste in; the conflict of science versus religion. All the props used symbolise death to such a degree of unsubtlety that there is even a grim reaper present. There are many crucifixes and headstones; but these serve a double purpose- by constantly reminding the audience of the religious connotations of these symbolic objects, many will also, if not consciously, realise how sacrilegious Dr. Frankensteins actions are, as well as simply being effective in setting the overcast mood. Once again, the sound is able to serve the same purpose; there is a bell ringing and a priestShow MoreRelatedComparing Emily Brontà «s Wuthering Heights to Mary Shelleys Frankenstein911 Words   |  4 Pageslot of films and novels, some of which are debatable as to if they were categorized properly. The Films Emily Bront#235;s Wuthering Heights directed by Peter Kosminsky, and Mary Shelleys Frankenstein directed by Kenneth Branagh are both based on novels. Both films display many different ideas, and are struct ured differently, but Mary Shelleys Frankenstein is an archetype for the gothic genre. 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