By the time BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN came around in 1935, not
quite four years after the original FRANKENSTEIN, The Monster was already a pop
culture icon, recognized worldwide, referenced and often spoofed in musical
shorts or animated cartoons. Reflecting this new, comfortable attitude towards
the very Monster that had once awed or disturbed critics, many reviews of the
new film, almost universally positive, were lighthearted and peppered with
jokes. The Monster was a Romeo, the Bride wore an “asparagus-tip hairdo” and a sequel would invariably be “Frankenstein’s
Baby”.
One of the most unusual and whimsical reviews appeared 19
July 1935 in The Newcastle Sun of New
South Wales, Australia. It was one of a series of “Rhymed Reviews” penned by
writer and critic Robin Slessor, whose knack for amusing verse was no doubt
triggered by his older brother, Kenneth Slessor (1901-1971), hailed as one of
Australia’s greatest poets.
Here, to facilitate reading, is a transcript of this unique,
fun, touching, and very special Rhymed Review.
Bride of Frankenstein, by Robin Slessor
A year or two ago, in mortal fear I fear, we gripped the
seat
And trembled at the mere approach of Karloff’s heavy feet
The monster made us shudder, as around the countryside
He blundered, wreaking havoc ‘mid the people far and
wide.
Though striking far more terror than the worst of all
banditti
He tinged our human horror with a modicum of pity,
The sequel to this horror film of man-created life
Shows Frankenstein, assisting in the moulding of a wife —
A mate for his monstrosity — a partner to command,
Who wakes in him a feeling that he cannot
understand.
The film is far more thrilling than the former one, and
yet
Despite the man’s repulsiveness, one cannot quite forget
The pathos of the story of this manufactured twosome, —
The tragic side is curiously mingled with the gruesome.
9 comments:
I love that poem, Pierre. I plan to memorize it and, next time I'm invited to a chic society soiree, I shall recite it once the gossip hour has passed.
Seriously...great stuff on possibly the greatest of all horror films.
Many thanks.
Really is a good poem and a good review!
Don't go away, Rick, there's lots more fun Bride stuff coming up this month!
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