A Ferocious and Heartbreaking ‘The Bride’

Maggie Gyllenhaal’s ‘The Bride’ isn’t just a retelling of the classic Bride of Frankenstein; it’s a bold, ambitious, and often surprising exploration of identity, empowerment, and the search for connection. Featuring ferocious performances from Jessie Buckley and a heartbreaking turn by Christian Bale, this film is a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Giving the Bride a Voice

The film brilliantly gives a voice and a mind to the Bride, a character who was famously silent in the 1935 original. Buckley’s portrayal is captivating, though it takes time to fully connect with the character as Gyllenhaal’s stylistic choices initially maintain a distance. The Bride isn’t simply a creature brought to life; she’s a woman grappling with a stolen past and a desire for agency.

Frank and the Search for Connection

But ‘The Bride’ is almost as much about Frank (Christian Bale) as it is about his new companion. Bale delivers a stunning performance, portraying Frank not as a lumbering monster, but as a lonely being yearning for understanding. His gravelly voice and heartbreaking vulnerability make him a surprisingly sympathetic figure. Frank’s love for cinema, particularly the performances of dancers like Jake Gyllenhaal’s Ronnie Reed, adds a layer of unexpected depth to his character. He finds solace and inspiration in the silver screen, dreaming of a life beyond his monstrous form.

A Stylish and Unconventional Narrative

Gyllenhaal masterfully weaves in references to films like Young Frankenstein, Bonnie and Clyde, and the dance numbers of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film isn’t afraid to be playful and provocative, juxtaposing serious themes of sexual violence with moments of lightheartedness. The inclusion of Mary Shelley herself, played by Buckley, adds another layer of meta-commentary, blurring the lines between creator and creation.

Themes of Empowerment and Equality

As the story unfolds, the Bride and Frank embark on a journey that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of love and equality. Frank’s protective nature and the Bride’s resilience create a dynamic where they rescue each other from loneliness and violence. This reciprocal relationship underscores the film’s feminist message, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding.

A Grand Scale and Exhilarating Vision

The film’s scope is truly gigantic, culminating in a thrilling ballroom shoot-out in Times Square. Even when ‘The Bride’ falters emotionally, its bold vision and exhilarating energy are undeniable. It’s a film that dares to be different, to challenge expectations, and to leave a lasting impression.

The Bride!

Director: Maggie Gyllenhaal

Cast: Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Annette Bening, Jake Gyllenhaal

Run time: 2hr 6m

Release date: 6 March

Further Reading:

• Why Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is misunderstood – BBC Culture
• Wuthering Heights is ‘sexy, dramatic, romantic’ – BBC Culture