I, Frankenstein (1/24/2014)

Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense fantasy action and violence throughout.

Starring Aaron Eckhart, Jai Courtney and Bill Nighy

Directed by Stuart Beattie

Frankenstein is an ugly monster with no soul…and the monster is pretty scary too.

Frankenstein’s monster Adam (Aaron Eckhart) gets swept up in a long-running battle between powerful gargoyles and infernal demons seeking the key to his immortality as director Stuart Beattie brings Kevin Grevioux’s acclaimed graphic novel to the screen in this sweeping horror fantasy adventure. Bill Nighy, Yvonne Strahovski, Miranda Otto and Jai Courtney co-star.

Everything about this film is ridiculous – from the choice to cast Aaron Eckhart as “the monster” Frankenstein, to the storyline pitting demons against gargoyles in a battle unaware to mankind. The way these two destroy buildings and open up “pits to hell,” mankind must be pretty dumb.

I am usually a fan of Aaron Eckhart, but he really dropped the ball in this one. He overacts just about every scene and his appearance is hardly grotesque. Plus he wears a lot of eyeliner…talk about artistic license.

Then there is Jai Courtney, who is now 0 for 3 in his performances. He had what should have been one of the coolest roles in the film, but delivers one of the most forgettable performances of the year.

Another huge flaw was the makeup. Besides Frankenstein’s “scars,” the demons look more ridiculous than scary.

One more item to put “the ridiculous” category, was the symbol the gargoyles used. Not quite a cross, but still close enough. And they’re building looked a lot like a church.

I, Frankenstein was a huge disappointment. And it was a “Coaster” for me.

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no sex or nudity and only one S-word.

The demons may be scary, considering they’re demonic members of an army led by the demon prince who tries to possess re-animated corpses with the descended spirits to take over the world as we know it. Other than that I think most older teenagers will just think it’s silly.

CONVERSATION STARTER

1. Why did Frankenstein struggle to know what side to fight with?


2. Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong or fit in?


3. Read Colossians 2:2
   
   I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love.
   
   
4. What do you think it means to be knit together by strong ties of love?


5. What can you do this week to strengthen some of your friendships?