Made in 2004, the Hallmark made for tv mini-series, "Frankenstein," is probably the truest adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel committed to film. This version sets out to humanize both Victor Frankenstein (Alec Newman) and his creation (an excellent portrayal by Luke Goss), and succeeds on both fronts. Not bothering to try competing with the classic Jack Pierce make-up design for the Universal Frankenstein monster, the monster here is hardly monstrous looking at all. Except for a couple of scars and a bad complexion, he's pretty normal looking, making the scene where the farmer goes ballistic on him seem like a huge overreaction.
This mini-series has a lot going for it, even hitting excellence in some places, but for some reason it seems held back. This could easily have been one of the best Frankenstein movies ever made, but isn't--but just not quite making the mark. It's too reserved, or maybe it gives off that made for tv vibe despite its excellent production design, cinematography, etc. There's something I can't quite put my finger on. It may not be quite perfect, but it is definitely worth watching.
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