Stream: Frankenstein
In 2011 this production was a big hit for the National Theatre. Directed by Danny Boyle who subsequently went on to provide the most exciting and definitive Olympic opening ceremony ever, this show pulled in the crowds. Having caught the original production in 2011, with Benedict Cumberbatch as the Creature and Jonny Lee Miller and his creator, I was sincerely hoping that I would enjoy revisiting the show more than my original reaction to it.
Sadly, this was not to be. It is spectacular beyond doubt with the huge historic bell from the Whitechapel foundry hanging over the auditorium (soon to be rung by Bradley Wiggins in the Olympic Ceremony). A massive lighting array connecting it overhead to the stage capable of replicating lightning strikes. And what about the steam punk charging on stage, all special effects and shouting actors? Let alone the almost naked creature (played on alternate nights by Miller and Cumberbatch) emerging from his egg, crawling around the stage for a least ten minutes demonstrating those physical skills learnt at drama school. How much better would the Royal Ballet’s Edward Watson have demonstrated this.
The storyline stayed faithfully to the novel by Mary Shelley, adapted by Nick Dear, but to be honest in this instance came over as rather silly. The expositions were overtaken by the special effects and music. Jonny Lee Miller’s gradual spoken language efforts felt uncomfortable and seemed rather disrespectful as he seemed to ape those that we know with learning difficulties. Cumberbatch strode the stage with aplomb and the lovely Naomi Harris wasted.
No doubt audiences loved the spectacle, but regrettably I found it again tedious and self-indulgent and somewhat depressing. Hey Ho, but what do I know? It proved a crowd pleaser and pulled in the punters. Box Office Gold!
