New Frankenstein Film 'The Bride!' Receives Mixed Reviews

The latest adaptation of the classic horror tale struggles to connect with audiences.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:25pm

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A dramatic black silhouette of a hulking, angular Frankenstein-like figure towering over a small, feminine silhouette of a flapper girl, conveying the film's ambitious but disjointed attempt to reinvent the iconic monster story.The latest Frankenstein adaptation struggles to breathe new life into the classic horror tale.Chicago Today

The newest Frankenstein film, 'The Bride!,' is receiving a mixed response from critics and audiences alike. Starring Jessie Buckley as Ida, a 1930s Chicago flapper, the film is a loose adaptation that struggles to stitch together its big ideas into a cohesive whole.

Why it matters

As one of the most iconic horror stories of all time, a new Frankenstein adaptation is always highly anticipated. However, this latest take on the classic tale has failed to capture the imagination of moviegoers, raising questions about Hollywood's ability to breathe new life into well-worn genres.

The details

Set in 1936 Chicago, 'The Bride!' follows Ida, a bleach-blonde flapper girl, in a new spin on the Frankenstein narrative. The film has been criticized for its disjointed storytelling and inability to fully commit to a singular vision, leaving audiences and critics underwhelmed.

  • The film was released in theaters on March 30, 2026.

The players

Jessie Buckley

The acclaimed actress who stars as Ida, the film's flapper-inspired take on the Frankenstein story.

'The Bride!'

The newest film adaptation of the classic Frankenstein tale, which has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences.

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What they’re saying

“Like the man himself, the film is a loosely stitched together pile of big ideas, but it had a lovely soul.”

— Daily Emerald

The takeaway

This latest Frankenstein adaptation highlights the challenges Hollywood faces in reinventing classic horror stories for modern audiences. While the film's ambition is admirable, its inability to fully cohere may leave viewers longing for a more cohesive and compelling take on the iconic monster tale.