The exclamation point on the movie’s title is appropriate because writer/director Maggie Gyllenhaal has created a bold new take on the Frankenstein story. It starts with the lonely monster (Christian Bale), who has lived for 100 years and travels to ‘30s Chicago to ask a scientist (Annette Bening) to create a companion. They dig up a murdered woman (Jessie Buckley) and the mayhem begins. Her personality was already outspoken before her death, but her revival makes her even more unhinged. Before long, the duo gets into trouble and is on the run. On their trail is a detective duo (Penélope Cruz and Peter Sarsgaard), which adds another interesting relationship. Gyllenhaal has created a wild endeavor that has to be appreciated for its daring approach and grand staging. Buckley and Bale go for broke with their over-the-top performances, but their assured ability makes it work. Even so, the whole story leads to excess that gets tangled in its bombastic approach. It’s not a total success, but is unquestionably unconventional with a unique vision and daring attitude. 
(3 / 5)
