Released in 1939, Son of Frankenstein is the third installment in the Frankenstein series, and is the last of which where Boris Karloff dons the Frankenstein Monster make up (he would later appear in House of Frankenstein in 1944, but as the mad Dr. Neimann). Son of Frankenstein takes place in what seems to be a fairly modern day and age, as there are cars and trains readily available throughout the country, and the Frankenstein family themselves seem like they are of the new generation. However, when upon returning to the town of Frankenstein, it's as if time has not been as friendly or prosperous. Riddled with the horrors of the past by the "Monster", this town is indeed troubled. The "son" as the title indicates is Wolfgang Von Frankenstein, brilliantly portrayed by Basil Rathbone in one of his best performances of his lengthy career. His return to his roots is a difficult one as he faces a rather cold reception - clearly conveyed by the town Burgormeister (the Mayor) when he says, "We came to meet you, not to greet you."

     I don't want to delve too much more into the plot of this film, as you should see how it unravels for yourself. Needless to say, the Frankenstein family has a blood-stained past, one that is scarred with the curse of mettling in things men should leave alone - and the curse returns here, with Boris Karloff as the Monster. However, he is not acting alone here, he has a bizarre partner, a sphen-golly if you will, in Igor, played by Bela Lugosi. Lugosi arguably steals the show with his incredibly original portrayal of the twisted, broken-neck bodysnatcher. His performance is so riveting and unpredictable, it is indeed unforgettable. Igor's influence over the Monster is powerful, and can call unto him while playing his "weird horn." His insidious influence over the Monster is quite troubling and threatens the entire town.

     Along the way, Wolf Frankenstein is being mysteriously investigated by Inspector Krogh, played by Lionel Atwill. The tension he adds to the film is also quite riveting, adding a extra dose of suspence and uncertainty to the surroundings. Wolf and Krogh often duke it out with their words, and the tension only tightens as the film goes on. With Wolf being either investigated by Krogh on one side, and getting his proverbial arm twisted by Igor on the other, it adds a whole lot of dimension to the scenario. And while all of this mess is playing out, Wolf is trying to protect his family from it, all in the name of restoring his family's past to glory - but in some sense, he too succumbs to the curse, as he can't help but explore his scientific interest in the Monster. Wolf says a key line when he is first about to subject the Monster to some clinical tests, he says, "As a man, I should kill him, but as a scientist, I should explore him." What is also present, as you can see, an inner turmoil between his duties and loyalty to his family name, and the moral dilemma of actually destroying the horrid Monster.

     Son of Frankenstein is one of my favorite films of all time, easily in my Top 10. I can't stress enough how great this movie actually is, with all its mystery, great performances, unforgettable characters, expressionitic scenary, and quotable, biting dialogue, it is an undisputed classic, worthy of a place amongst the greats of this acclaimed genre. It is a film, that for me, has inspired me to have such a great interest in movies. I have seen it countless times, and undoubtedly, will see it countless more, and it never gets old. It is a true gem, from beginning to end. See for yourself, and behold the mystery and thrills that lie within!

-Kurt L.

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