2025, Lisa Frankenstein is a 2024 American horror-comedy film that offers a vibrant twist on Mary Shelley’s classic tale. Directed by Zelda Williams and penned by Diablo Cody, this bold reimagining infuses teen romance, 1980s aesthetics, and macabre humor into a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience. With a fresh narrative anchored by powerful performances and stylistic flair, Lisa Frankenstein delivers a darkly whimsical journey that defies genre conventions.
Plot Summary: Love Beyond the Grave
Set in a stylized 1989, the film follows Lisa Swallows, an awkward, goth-leaning teenager grieving her late mother while adjusting to a new school and stepfamily. Lisa finds solace in visiting a neglected Victorian-era graveyard, where she becomes infatuated with the gravestone of a long-dead, nameless man.
During a freak lightning storm, her wish for connection is granted—literally. The man’s corpse is reanimated, sparking an unexpected friendship that soon evolves into a deeply unusual love story. As Lisa and her undead companion navigate the challenges of modern life—hiding body parts, learning language, shopping for fresh skin—they develop an emotionally resonant bond that transcends death itself.
Cast and Characters: A Perfectly Peculiar Ensemble
- Kathryn Newton as Lisa Swallows: Newton brings a quirky charm and emotional depth to the title role, balancing awkwardness with fierce determination.
- Cole Sprouse as The Creature: Wordless yet expressive, Sprouse delivers a compelling physical performance as the reanimated corpse navigating the strange new world.
- Liza Soberano as Taffy: Lisa’s upbeat and image-conscious stepsister adds levity and unexpected wisdom to the storyline.
- Henry Eikenberry as Michael: Lisa’s love interest turned antagonist.
- Joe Chrest and Carla Gugino: As Lisa’s stepfather and overbearing stepmother, they offer a satirical look at suburban parenting in the 1980s.
Visual Style and Direction: A Vibrant Tribute to the ‘80s
Zelda Williams masterfully combines neon hues, gothic textures, and nostalgic set design to recreate a visually saturated 1980s world. The film’s color palette reflects Lisa’s transformation—from grayscale isolation to colorful self-actualization. Practical effects and old-school makeup techniques enhance the campy horror aesthetic, paying homage to B-movies and horror classics alike.
Themes: Identity, Empowerment, and Grief
At its core, Lisa Frankenstein is a film about transformation—emotional, personal, and literal. It explores themes such as:
- Coming-of-age through the lens of loss: Lisa’s grief becomes the catalyst for her awakening and rebellion against societal expectations.
- Love as restoration: The creature’s physical restoration mirrors Lisa’s emotional healing.
- Self-definition in a repressive environment: From body autonomy to feminist undertones, the film challenges norms with its subversive script.
Screenplay by Diablo Cody: Sharp, Satirical, and Subversive
Cody’s writing is known for its wit, social commentary, and subcultural references. With Lisa Frankenstein, she delivers a script that is both emotionally grounded and deliciously irreverent. Her dialogue zings with irony and teen angst, reminiscent of Jennifer’s Body but laced with gothic romanticism.
Soundtrack and Score: Echoes of Teenage Longing
The retro soundtrack blends synth-pop, goth rock, and 1980s radio hits. Music acts as both atmosphere and emotional driver, intensifying scenes of horror, love, and rebellion. Composer Isabella Summers adds emotional gravitas with an eerie yet melodic score that complements Lisa’s inner turmoil.
Box Office Performance and Reception
Despite its niche appeal, Lisa Frankenstein garnered significant attention upon release due to its genre-mashing style and cult appeal. Critics praised its originality, visual design, and standout performances. While some noted its tonal inconsistencies, the majority applauded its daring approach to reanimation tales.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71% (Critics) | 80% (Audience)
Box Office Gross: $38 million globally (as of Q2 2024)
This character arc chart highlights Lisa’s personal evolution from a passive outsider to a proactive, empowered protagonist.
Cultural Impact and Feminist Undertones
The film contributes to the growing trend of feminist reinterpretations of classic horror. Much like Crimson Peak and Jennifer’s Body, it centers female desire, autonomy, and rage within the framework of genre storytelling. Lisa’s journey is not just about finding love but reclaiming her narrative—subverting the “Frankenstein’s bride” trope by becoming the metaphorical “Victor” herself.
Behind-the-Scenes and Production Notes
- Filming Locations: Shot primarily in New Orleans, with carefully curated sets to reflect vintage suburban America.
- Production Companies: Focus Features, MXN Entertainment.
- Runtime: 101 minutes.
The practical effects and old-school horror techniques were intentional, with a focus on makeup and physical props over CGI, echoing 1980s horror authenticity.
Why Lisa Frankenstein Stands Out
- Original Concept: Combines coming-of-age with horror romance—rare in modern cinema.
- Strong Female Protagonist: Complex, flawed, and relatable.
- Satirical Lens: Skewers both 1980s suburban life and outdated gender norms.
- Retro Aesthetic: A visual love letter to VHS-era horror films.
Final Verdict: A Cult Classic in the Making
Lisa Frankenstein is not your typical horror flick—it’s a love story stitched together with grief, humor, and rebellion. It’s a stylish genre blend that refuses to conform, much like its lead character. Whether you’re here for the fashion, the blood, or the emotional journey, this film offers a memorable and thought-provoking ride.