Counter Culture

“Lisa Frankenstein,” directed by Zelda Williams and written by Diablo Cody, is a film that attempts to blend the nostalgia of 80s teen horror with the quirkiness of a zombie romcom. However, despite its promising premise and a talented cast, the film struggles to find its footing. Critics have noted that the movie falls flat, lacking the boldness in script and direction necessary to make its mark in the genre.

The film’s erratic pacing and inconsistent character development leave viewers craving the depth and magic that its intriguing concept promises. While it aims to pay homage to the 80s, it does so with a heavy hand, resulting in a pastiche that feels more like a missed opportunity than a clever reinvention.

“Lisa Frankenstein” also suffers from unresolved storylines, leaving viewers questioning the backstory and motivations of the protagonist, Lisa Swallows, portrayed by Kathryn Newton. The film introduces intriguing plot points but fails to explore them fully, leaving a sense of incompleteness.

The cast deserved a better script. Lisa, is played well, and “The Creature,” portrayed by Cole Sprouse gives a convincing turn. Liza Soberano delivers a memorable performance as Taffy, Lisa’s stepsister. Her portrayal of a vacant cheerleader brings a touch of humor to the film, providing some much-needed levity. Similarly, Joe Chrest as Dale, Lisa’s father, amuses with his portrayal of a detached parent, almost ghost-like in his presence, which adds an interesting dynamic to the family setting.The performances of Soberano and Chrest offer moments of comedy that shine through the film’s darker themes.

Another plus point is the soundtrack of “Lisa Frankenstein” which captures the essence of the era with a selection of popular hits and original compositions. The music plays a pivotal role in the film, underscoring key moments and adding a layer of emotional depth that the narrative often lacks. Notable songs include “The Promise” by When in Rome (1984) and “Can’t Fight This Feeling” (1987 in the UK) by REO Speedwagon, covered by JoJo, which play during significant scenes, enhancing the storytelling.

Reviewd by Pat Harrington

Picture Credit: By http://www.impawards.com/2024/lisa_frankenstein_ver2.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75064717