Frankenstein’s thrilling fate

Trying to play God’s role and finding the right formula to create a spark of life has always been one of the most hidden dreams of humankind. But building a man has become a reality this winter. The famous tale Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, returns to cinemas all over the world in a programme called National Theatre Live.

A play directed by Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire, Steve Jobs) has become a worldwide sensation. It is not only the well-thought-out breathtaking plot that attracts many spectators, but also the excellent performances of the leading actors – Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller. Furthermore, the director decided to make Shelley’s masterpiece even more coherent and touching, so Cumberbatch and Miller alternate the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creation.

‚This is your universe, Frankenstein!‘

Born into a world of cruelty and surrounded by vicious beings, the Creation desperately tries to socialise and make a friend. But he meets only fear, rejection and greed. We are witnesses of a legendary transformation –  a childlike soul turns into a revengeful beast, but in spite of all the evil, the only thing that Frankenstein’s artificial child wants is to be loved.

Nick Dear’s creation presents spectators with a unique, timeless story which makes them laugh and then makes them cry a river. In addition, it gives a priceless lesson to everyone, especially at the end when we uncover bloodcurdling similarities between the Creation and Victor Frankenstein, and when we realise that Frankenstein has just created an entity functioning as his mirror. After that, no one leaving the theatre can really say who the real beast is.

National Theatre Live is a broadcasting project running since 2009. If you would like to experience one of the outstanding London performances, visit the NTL website, do not hesitate and book your tickets.

Text vznikl v rámci kurzu Angličtina pro žurnalisty Kabinetu jazykové přípravy.

Foto credit: Alastair Muir, The Telegraph