Lisa Frankenstein (2024) [Movie review]

Diablo Cody and Zelda Williams join forces in “Lisa Frankenstein” a film that cleverly merges the horror-comedy genre with a vibrant splash of teenage angst and wit. While not quite reaching the cult status of “Jennifer’s Body,” this film presents a unique personality that shines through its entirety, supported by an undeniably awesome soundtrack. But is it enough to lure the streaming-obsessed teen demographic back into the cinema seats? Let’s dive into the heart of “Lisa Frankenstein” and find out.

The Plot Unravels: A Fresh Take on the Frankenstein Myth

Set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1989, “Lisa Frankenstein” introduces us to Lisa, played by the talented Kathryn Newton, a teenage girl who finds herself in the midst of an eerie adventure. After accidentally bringing a Victorian-era corpse (Cole Sprouse) back to life, Lisa embarks on a journey filled with chaos, camaraderie, and an unexpected twist on the classic Frankenstein tale. Liza Soberano adds depth to the ensemble cast, enriching the film’s dynamic storytelling.

Directing with a Daring Vision: Zelda Williams at the Helm

Zelda Williams makes her directorial debut with a film that is as ambitious as it is visually arresting. Set in the colorful and eclectic era of the late ’80s, Williams manages to capture the essence of the time, balancing sharp humor with poignant social commentary. However, the film’s pacing encounters rough patches, leading to a mix of dragged scenes and hurried transitions. Despite these hiccups, “Lisa Frankenstein” stands as a testament to Williams’ potential as a filmmaker to watch.

Nostalgia Meets Modernity: The Genius of Diablo Cody’s Writing

Diablo Cody’s script is a treasure trove of witty dialogue and clever observations, making “Lisa Frankenstein” resonate with both audiences who lived through the ’80s and modern teens drawn to the decade’s allure. While the film gleams with Cody’s characteristic humor, it occasionally struggles to maintain narrative cohesion, leaving some plotlines feeling less explored amidst the dazzling ’80s references.

The Beauty and the Missed Marks

While “Lisa Frankenstein” captivates with its engaging setting and sharp dialogue, it sometimes falters in delivering a fully integrated narrative. The rich thematic potential of the film is somewhat undercut by moments where the nostalgic elements seem more decorative than foundational to the storyline.

A Missed Opportunity or a Genre-Defining Gem?

“Lisa Frankenstein” could have easily found a home alongside late ’80s cult classics, sharing a double feature with films like “Heathers.” Yet, it occasionally succumbs to the pitfalls that have ensnared other Cody creations post-“Juno” — the challenge of delivering fresh twists on familiar tropes. Zelda Williams’ direction and the compelling performances, particularly by Kathryn Newton, prevent the film from being overshadowed by its script’s weaknesses.

Despite its flaws, “Lisa Frankenstein” showcases a plethora of innovative ideas, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre and a film that deserves the spotlight in theaters.

Lisa Frankenstein is Now Playing in Theaters!

“Lisa Frankenstein” beckons audiences back to the big screen, offering a blend of humor, horror, and heart. Whether it will succeed in drawing the streaming-centric teen audience into theaters remains to be seen. However, its creative ambition and spirited execution make it a film worth watching, marking an intriguing chapter in both Cody’s and Williams’ careers.

All of that being said, I can see Lisa Frankenstein having an amazing life on home video and streaming. It seems like the movie that gets aimed at teens, only for the middle school set to discover.